Sindh Food Authority (SFA) raided a Chocolate Manufacturing Factory in Korangi Industrial Area, Karachi. The authority sealed the factory over the use of harmful ingredients and its unhygienic environment, as lizards were found in the chocolate baskets.
SFA, accompanied by the police, raided the Chocolate Manufacturing Factory involved in making unhygienic chocolates in Bilal Colony, near Pakhtukhuwan Chowk, Korangi Industrial Area, Karachi.
Director Operation SFA, Abrar Ahmed Shaikh, told ProPakistani that the chocolates were being prepared by reprocessing expired chocolates and harmful ingredients such as talcum powder. Notably, the workers belonging to the chocolate factory informed during the raid that they have been doing this business for the last 15 years and the owner of the company is based in Lahore.
“The unhygienic condition of the manufacturing area and the labor force was pathetic. There was no set up to keep insects away from food production area and SFA staff spotted a lizard in the chocolate basket.” Abrar said.
The manufacturers had no medical testing certificates and failed to satisfy the operation team of SFA. The manager failed to produce the raw material record on the spot.
Abrar told that for now, the food authority has sealed the factory temporarily and a fine has been imposed on the owners. SFA informed the local police to keep an eye on things to maintain the order. They also collected samples for further processing
“The operation team of SFA collected samples of raw material and finished products for laboratory analysis. In case of a non-satisfactory laboratory report, which fails to comply with SFA standards, the factory will be sealed permanently.” Director Operations SFA informed.
Abrar stated that such raids shall be carried out in the future as well for the betterment of the public health, consumer rights and hygiene.
