Authorities in Gilgit-Baltistan have identified 32 commonly consumed food products, including flour and cooking oils, as substandard, raising serious public health concerns. Recent testing by the Drug, Food and Water Testing Laboratory, in collaboration with the Drug Control Administration, revealed that these essential food items do not meet safety standards. Officials warn that continued consumption of these products could lead to severe health issues, such as cancer and heart disease.
Samples of wheat, flour, edible oils, and other items were tested, confirming the presence of substandard ingredients. Reports have been sent to relevant departments to take immediate action to stop the sale and distribution of these harmful products.
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Dr. Junaid Akhtar, Chief Drug Inspector and Director of the Drug, Food and Water Testing Laboratory, said inspections are also underway at hospitals and pharmacies to ensure the availability of safe medicines. He noted that previously, food samples had to be sent to major cities like Karachi and Lahore for analysis, causing delays of up to three months. The establishment of a local testing laboratory has significantly reduced this turnaround time, allowing for faster responses against unsafe food products.
Dr. Akhtar emphasized the urgent need to educate the public about the health risks of consuming low-quality food and urged residents to avoid purchasing the flagged products.
Health experts have warned that Gilgit-Baltistan’s reliance on imported food, due to a lack of local food industry, has contributed to rising cases of cardiovascular and gastrointestinal illnesses. There are also concerns that some substandard products may be counterfeit, imitating legitimate brands.
Calls are increasing for stricter regulation and stronger supply chain monitoring to protect public health in the region.
