Lahore: A covert operation in Lahore led to the closure of a fraudulent beverage production unit that was found manufacturing and selling counterfeit versions of popular carbonated drinks. The raid, conducted under the direction of Punjab Food Minister Bilal Yasin, resulted in the confiscation of over 11,000 liters of illicit products.

According to Directorate General Public Relation – Govt of Punjab announcement issued on 06 August 2024, the operation took place in a private society along College Road where Food Safety teams discovered a facility using expired chemicals and artificial sweeteners to produce fake versions of six well-known drink brands. The bottles, mimicking legitimate products through slight alterations to label designs, were being sold at premium prices, misleading consumers.

Minister Yasin emphasized the seriousness of the infringement on consumer rights and public health, instructing the DG Punjab Food Authority, Asim Javed, to enforce stricter labeling regulations to prevent such deceptive practices in the future. The minister also cautioned local shopkeepers against engaging in or supporting fraudulent manufacturing activities.