Metro53 - JHELUM: The sale of substandard and unhygienic food items at various food outlets, juice corners and roadside stalls in Jhelum and its surrounding areas has emerged as a growing public health concern, prompting citizens and social organizations to demand immediate action from the authorities.
Residents have alleged that a number of vendors are using low-quality ingredients in the preparation of milkshakes, juices, fruit chaat, dahi bhallay and other food products. Complaints have also surfaced regarding the use of artificial substitutes in place of milk and yogurt, as well as the alleged use of harmful chemicals that may pose serious health risks.
According to members of the public, stale fruits, spoiled milk and inferior spices are being used at several locations, increasing the risk of stomach, liver and intestinal diseases. They warned that the consumption of contaminated food could also contribute to the spread of hepatitis and other serious illnesses.
Citizens further stated that some vendors are taking advantage of the increased demand for cold beverages and food items during the summer season by charging high prices while ignoring basic hygiene and food safety standards.
Public concerns have also been raised over what residents describe as a lack of effective monitoring and enforcement against businesses allegedly selling unsafe food products. They warned that failure to address the issue could lead to significant public health challenges.
Social organizations, community representatives and citizens from various walks of life have urged the Director General of the Punjab Food Authority, the district administration and other relevant authorities to launch an emergency inspection campaign across the city. They called for strict legal action against those found selling substandard, adulterated or unsafe food items.
They also emphasized the need for the Punjab Food Authority to further strengthen its monitoring mechanisms to ensure the availability of safe and quality food for consumers and to protect residents from preventable diseases.
