KARACHI: In an initiative aimed at curbing the sale of sub-standard products, the Pakistan Standards and Quality Control Authority (PSQCA) conducted a surprise inspection of private superstores in Gulistan Johar, Karachi. The inspection, led by Deputy Director Sajid Mian Bhutto and Assistant Director Imtiaz Ali Memon, focused on products such as cooking oil, ghee, tea, cosmetics, and face creams.

According to Ministry of Science and Technology, the inspection was carried out following directives from Director General Taufiq Ali Abbasi and Director of Conformity Assessment Karachi, Muhammad Ashraf Palari. During the operation, more than 17 samples of different brands of cooking oil and ghee were collected and tested on-site using a modern mobile testing lab. The tests confirmed that one brand was sub-standard, leading to its immediate removal from shelves, sealing, and the issuance of a notice for further action.

Mr. Palari emphasized the health risks associated with sub-standard cooking oil and highlighted that the new mobile lab will enable on-the-spot testing in supermarkets and open markets. He stated that the objective of these actions is to ensure citizens have access to quality goods. Deputy Director Bhutto and Assistant Director Memon reiterated the complete ban on unregistered items, noting that the team is actively conducting spot tests in various areas to halt the sale of unhealthy products.