Independent Report
Peshawar:
Serious concerns are being raised regarding the quality and safety of food items sold in various parts of Peshawar, particularly in densely populated commercial areas.
Residents and consumers allege that substandard and potentially hazardous food products—including children’s snacks, chips, milk-based items, toffees, and drinking water—are widely available in city markets. Concerns have also been expressed about eateries and hotels in areas such as Karkhano Bazaar, where meat products used in karahi, tikka, and patty items are alleged to be of questionable quality.
According to locals, some food vendors and small manufacturing units are suspected of using old or improperly stored meat and other ingredients, posing serious health risks, especially to children. Citizens have urged the Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Food Safety and Halal Food Authority to intensify inspections, particularly in high-risk areas and informal markets.
Health experts warn that consumption of unsafe food can lead to severe health complications and stress the need for strict enforcement of food safety laws. Authorities have been called upon to ensure regular monitoring, transparent enforcement, and public awareness to safeguard consumer health.
