The 16th Consumer Food Safety and Quality Conference was held at the Islamic Chamber of Commerce, Karachi, where Abdul Jabbar Khan, Special Assistant to the Chief Minister of Sindh for Food, participated as the chief guest.
Addressing the conference, Abdul Jabbar Khan stated that the primary aim of the Sindh Food Authority is to ensure the provision of safe and internationally standardized food to the people of the province.
He mentioned that today, samples of loose tea and loose oil from various markets in Karachi have been sent to the laboratory for testing. Abdul Jabbar Khan said that if any food manufacturing, selling entity, hotel, restaurant, street vendor, milk shop, or sweet shop is found violating the law, they will face penalties, legal action, and their businesses may be sealed. However, this time the Food Department is taking a unique approach. A "thumbs up" shield is being prepared to recognize and encourage businesses that are performing well.
He added that he would soon discuss with the Chief Minister the establishment of a Sindh Food Authority force and uniforms for officers and field staff. In line with the vision of Chairman Pakistan People's Party Bilawal Bhutto Zardari and the Chief Minister of Sindh, efforts are being made to strengthen the institution. Very soon, a strong and effective organization will be in front of the public. The aim is to make the Sindh Food Authority a model and autonomous institution.
The Special Assistant emphasized that gaining the trust of consumers is the true success. Selling fake, substandard, and harmful food items is not only a personal loss but a national one. He stressed the need to register and license all hotels, restaurants, and food-related businesses in Sindh. So far, nearly 13,000 hotels, restaurants, and shops in Sindh have been licensed.
Congratulating the Consumer Association of Pakistan on organizing a successful conference, he praised Kokab Iqbal and his team for their excellent work and said Kokab Iqbal is deserving of a Presidential Award.
Abdul Jabbar Khan further explained that food safety means adopting modern and safe methods at all stages of food preparation, processing, storage, and distribution to avoid the risk of foodborne illnesses. Food safety is not just a regulation—it is a fundamental pillar of our public health, economy, and social welfare.
He welcomed all the distinguished guests who graced the conference with their presence, saying their participation reflects a collective commitment to improving food safety and quality. Abdul Jabbar Khan called for a joint strategy to ensure food safety, protect consumer rights, and strengthen the economy. He emphasized that government, industry, academic institutions, and consumer organizations must work together.
He expressed hope that the conference would prove to be a precursor to positive changes in food safety and prayed for success in achieving these goals.
