Islamabad Food Authority Seals Major Pepsi Distributor
The Islamabad Food Authority (IFA) recently sealed Haideri Beverages and Beverages Plus, a primary Pepsi distributor sealed in Humak Model Town, Islamabad. This decisive action followed an unannounced raid, in coordination with the ICT Assistant Commissioner, responding to critical information regarding serious food safety violations. Consequently, all operations at these facilities have been immediately suspended, impacting beverage distribution in the region. This incident concerning the Pepsi distributor sealed serves as a stark reminder of regulatory oversight.
Why the Pepsi Distributor Was Sealed: Expired Ingredients & Infestation
During their thorough inspection, officials uncovered alarming discoveries. They found allegedly expired and fungus-infested sugar being actively used in the manufacturing of Pepsi and other beverages. Furthermore, the inspection team documented four significant breaches of essential food safety regulations at the site:
- Blatant non-compliance with earlier instructions issued by the Islamabad Food Authority.
- Approximately 150 sugar bags displayed tampered expiry dates, suggesting deceptive labeling practices.
- A widespread cockroach infestation was evident on sugar bags, posing severe health risks.
- Crucially, sugar was stored directly on the floor, failing to meet fundamental hygiene and safety standards.
Strict Enforcement by Islamabad Food Authority
Following these alarming discoveries, food authority staff collected two separate samples of spilled sugar for comprehensive laboratory analysis. Pending these crucial test results, authorities took immediate and firm action. They sealed a staggering 54,874 sugar bags across both facilities. In addition, entire warehouses were sealed, and all production, sale, and purchase activities were suspended without delay until further notice. This highlights the IFA’s unwavering commitment to consumer safety and regulatory enforcement.
Officials estimate the value of the expired sugar alone to be millions of rupees. Consequently, this incident dramatically underscores the severe financial and reputational consequences for businesses neglecting stringent food safety standards in Pakistan.
Pepsi’s Official Response Awaited
ProPakistani has reached out to Pepsi for their official comment regarding this serious matter involving their main distributor. The story will be updated as soon as a response is received. This situation further emphasizes the critical importance of transparent supply chain management and consistent quality control within the beverage industry.
