Quetta: Food Authority Inspects 74 Hotels and Restaurants, Fines Imposed on 20 Outlets

*Quetta:* On the directives of Provincial Minister for Food and Chairman of the Balochistan Food Authority (BFA), Haji Noor Muhammad Khan, the Balochistan Food Authority carried out a major inspection and crackdown campaign against hotels, restaurants, pizza points, and fast food outlets in Quetta.

During the operation, a total of 74 food establishments were inspected. Violations were found including poor hygiene conditions, use of substandard and expired cooking oil, harmful food colors, Chinese salt, substandard ingredients, and operating without valid food business licenses.

As a result, fines were imposed on 13 hotels, six pizza points, and one fast food corner. Large quantities of harmful Chinese salt were confiscated, while unfit cooking oil was destroyed on the spot. Additionally, corrective notices were issued to 18 outlets for minor violations.

Speaking on the occasion, Haji Noor Muhammad Khan stated that ensuring the supply of safe and hygienic food to the public is the government’s top priority, and no leniency will be shown towards those involved in the sale of substandard food. He urged food business operators to strictly comply with hygiene standards and licensing requirements, warning that strict legal action will be taken against violators.

According to a BFA spokesperson, the inspections were conducted in various areas including Nawan Killi, Hazarganji, Satellite Town, Toghi Road, Mekangi Road, Goli Mar Chowk, Brewery Road, and Airport Road. The spokesperson added that the inspection drive will be further intensified in the coming days.