The Lahore High Court (LHC) has observed that the Punjab Food Authority (PFA) does not have the legal authority to seal grocery stores, even if adulterated or substandard food items are discovered during inspections. The court made these remarks while hearing a petition filed against the sealing of a general store in Sheikhupura.
During the proceedings, the court stated that while the Punjab Food Authority has the power to inspect food businesses and initiate legal action against violations under the relevant food safety laws, it cannot seal a grocery store unless such authority is clearly provided under the law.
The judges emphasized that enforcement actions must remain within the limits set by legislation. According to the court, the appropriate course of action in cases involving adulterated food is to register a case, collect evidence, and proceed through the legal process instead of immediately sealing commercial premises.
The court also observed that the sealed store should be reopened. It warned that if the authorities failed to de-seal the premises, appropriate judicial orders would be issued. However, the court has reserved its final verdict on the petition, which will be announced after completing its legal review.
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The case has attracted attention from traders and business owners across Punjab, many of whom believe the ruling could clarify the limits of the Punjab Food Authority’s enforcement powers. At the same time, food safety experts stress that strict action against food adulteration remains essential to protect public health, provided that all measures are taken in accordance with the law.
The Punjab Food Authority regularly conducts inspections to prevent the sale of unsafe and adulterated food products across the province. The High Court’s observations do not prevent the authority from taking legal action against violators but highlight that such actions must comply with existing legal procedures.
The reserved judgment is expected to provide further legal clarity regarding the powers of the Punjab Food Authority and may influence how future food safety enforcement actions are carried out across Punjab.
