Authorities have successfully busted a factory involved in the production of fake and adulterated milk in Islamabad, averting a potential public health crisis ahead of the holy month of Ramazan. The operation was jointly carried out by the Punjab Food Authority (PFA) and the Islamabad Food Authority (IFA) after receiving credible intelligence about illegal milk production activities in the federal capital.
Acting on secret information, food safety teams raided a house located near Lehtrar Road, where they uncovered a large-scale setup used to manufacture counterfeit milk. During the raid, officials recovered approximately 13,000 litres of a chemical mixture that was allegedly being used to prepare fake milk. Authorities estimated that this quantity could have been converted into nearly 50,000 litres of adulterated milk for supply to markets in Islamabad and Rawalpindi.
In addition to the liquid chemicals, the teams seized banaspati ghee, powdered substances, and machinery used to process, mix, and package the fake milk. Officials revealed that the accused were combining harmful chemicals and hydrogenated fats to create a white liquid resembling real milk, which was then prepared for distribution.
The timing of the operation was particularly crucial as the demand for milk increases significantly during Ramazan due to its extensive use in sehri, iftar, sweets, and beverages. The supply of contaminated milk during this period could have posed serious health risks to thousands of families, including children and the elderly.
Food safety officers immediately destroyed the seized chemical mixture on the spot to ensure it would not reach consumers. Production equipment was confiscated, and a legal case has been registered against those involved. Authorities have also launched further investigations to identify any wider networks linked to the illegal operation.
Officials reiterated that food adulteration is a grave offense that endangers public health. They emphasized that strict monitoring and inspections are being conducted not only in Islamabad and Rawalpindi but also in other regions to prevent similar incidents. Citizens have been urged to report suspicious food production or sales activities to help authorities take timely action and ensure food safety during Ramazan.
