Punjab Food Authority seals Hardee’s after surprise inspection
Surprise inspection uncovers multiple violations
According to the Punjab Food Authority, inspectors found that the restaurant was using completely unfiltered water through an unhygienic and non-compliant reverse osmosis (RO) filtration system.
Officials said access to clean drinking water is one of the most important requirements for preparing safe food, and any violation can put consumers’ health at risk.
Inspectors also discovered several other food safety violations during the inspection. Authorities said the findings reflected poor compliance with the province’s food safety regulations.
Rotten vegetables and undated food items were recovered
During the inspection, food safety teams recovered rotten vegetables from the restaurant’s kitchen. Inspectors also found food ingredients stored under improper conditions that failed to meet the required safety standards.
In addition, officials discovered sauces and condiments that were being used without proper date labels. The authority said the absence of date labels makes it difficult to verify the freshness and safe use of food products.
Kitchen hygiene is found below the required standards
The Punjab Food Authority also highlighted poor sanitation in the restaurant’s kitchen and storage areas. Officials described the overall hygiene conditions as unsatisfactory and said immediate corrective measures were necessary.
They noted that maintaining cleanliness in food preparation areas is essential to prevent contamination and protect public health. The inspection team documented all violations before taking enforcement action.
Restaurant sealed until standards are met
Following the inspection, the Punjab Food Authority sealed the Hardee’s outlet and imposed a heavy fine. Officials said the restaurant will remain closed until it fully complies with food safety regulations.
The outlet must address deficiencies related to water filtration, food storage, sanitation, and hygiene before it can resume operations. Authorities said a follow-up inspection will be conducted before any approval to reopen the outlet is granted.
“Safe Food” initiative continues across Punjab
The inspection was carried out as part of the Punjab government’s ongoing “Safe Food” initiative. The campaign focuses on identifying restaurants, hotels, and food businesses that fail to meet the required health and hygiene standards.
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Officials said regular inspections are being conducted across Punjab to improve food quality and protect consumers. The initiative also encourages food businesses to maintain higher standards of cleanliness and food safety.
PFA warns businesses over food safety violations
The Punjab Food Authority said protecting consumers remains its highest priority. Officials warned that strict action will continue against restaurants and food outlets found violating food safety regulations.
They urged food business owners to maintain proper hygiene, ensure safe food storage, and install compliant water filtration systems to avoid legal action. Authorities added that businesses failing to comply with regulations could face fines, temporary closures, or other enforcement measures.
Consumers urged to stay vigilant
Food safety experts have advised consumers to report unhygienic conditions or suspected food safety violations to the relevant authorities. They said regular inspections play an important role in improving food quality and reducing health risks.
Officials also encouraged restaurants to strengthen internal quality control measures and follow approved food handling practices. The Punjab Food Authority said it will continue monitoring food businesses to ensure consumers receive safe, hygienic, and high-quality food.
