A major food safety operation in Lahore has led to the seizure of 3,000kg of expired ice cream.
Authorities recovered the stock from a distribution facility in Shahdara. The seized products were identified as Walls ice cream.
Special Assistant to the Chief Minister Salma Butt and Punjab Food Authority officials conducted the raid. DG Food Authority Raja Mansoor Ahmed also participated in the operation.
Officials inspected the Four Star Distribution facility during the operation. They discovered a large quantity of expired and fungus-infested frozen products.
The seized ice cream had reportedly expired in November 2025. Despite its expiry, the products were stored inside a cold-storage facility.
Officials said the temperature was maintained at around minus 22°C. The expired stock was reportedly stored alongside fresh products.
Authorities expressed concern that the expired products were allegedly being prepared for distribution. The stock could have potentially reached markets in different cities.
The discovery has raised concerns about consumer safety. Officials said the products were unfit for human consumption.
The entire batch of 3,000kg Fungus-infested ice cream was destroyed at the site. Authorities took the action after determining that the products were unsafe.
The Food Authority also imposed a fine of Rs1 million on the distribution facility. Its operations were temporarily suspended following the raid.
Authorities are investigating whether any unsafe stock had already entered the market. They are also examining the facility’s handling and storage practices.
The case has highlighted concerns about expired food products being stored with fresh supplies. Food officials described the practice as a serious violation of safety standards.
The 3,000kg Fungus-infested stock has also prompted renewed attention to food safety procedures. Officials said businesses must strictly follow established food safety rules.
Authorities warned that food businesses would face action over public health violations. They said a zero-tolerance approach would be followed against unsafe products.
The company concerned will reportedly have to meet food safety requirements before further decisions. Officials will assess compliance with relevant standard operating procedures.
Food safety teams are expected to continue inspections across Punjab. These operations will cover major brands and smaller food businesses.
The 3,000kg Fungus-infested ice cream seizure also carries a message for consumers. Buyers are advised to check expiry dates before purchasing frozen products.
Consumers should also examine packaging for signs of damage or poor storage. Proper handling is especially important for products requiring cold storage.
The development comes after another regulatory matter involving Walls and Omore frozen desserts. Earlier this year, the Competition Appellate Tribunal upheld findings by the Competition Commission of Pakistan.
The tribunal found that certain frozen desserts were marketed as “ice cream.” It maintained violations against Unilever Pakistan and FrieslandCampina Engro.
However, the tribunal reduced the penalties imposed on both companies. The main fine for each company was reduced from Rs75 million to Rs15 million.
An additional Unilever penalty was also reduced from Rs20 million to Rs5 million.
The latest Lahore operation has once again placed food safety under public attention. Authorities say enforcement will continue to protect consumers from expired and substandard products.
In other news read more about: Punjab Food Authority Seals Bakery Production Unit Over Safety Violations in Lahore
