Health team raids ‘filthy’ ice cream factory in Hambran

Ludhiana: Acting on a complaint of unhygienic conditions in an ice cream factory in Hambran, a health department team raided the unit on Wednesday and found a lack of cleanliness there.
The health department officials said that, acting on the directions of Punjab Health Minister Dr Balbir Singh and under the leadership of Dr Ramandeep Kaur, Civil Surgeon, Ludhiana, the District Health Department's Food Safety Team carried out a surprise inspection at an ice cream manufacturing unit situated in the industrial area, Hambran, Ludhiana. They added that the inspection revealed alarming levels of uncleanliness and unhygienic food preparation practices.
"The working environment of the factory was found to be filthy, cluttered with waste, and lacking basic sanitation, raising serious concerns regarding consumer health and safety," said the health department. "The team collected two samples of ice cream, which were sent to the State Food Laboratory for further analysis. A challan was issued on the spot to the factory management for severe violations of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and legal proceedings were initiated."
Dr Amarjit Kaur, District Health Officer (DHO), emphasised the department's "strict stance" on food safety. "No compromise will be tolerated when it comes to public health. Food establishments operating in unhygienic conditions not only break the law but also endanger the lives of consumers. Our teams are actively conducting checks, and offenders will be dealt with firmly," she said.
According to the DHO, a challan for unhygienic conditions was issued to the ice cream unit, which will be decided by the additional deputy commissioner (ADC) court. She added that during the summer season, ice cream sales are higher, so they have started such checks. Health department officials said that houseflies and uncovered raw materials were found at the unit, and even some ice flavours were expired, which were destroyed by the team.
Meanwhile, the health department has urged all food business operators to ensure strict compliance with hygiene protocols, failing which stringent action will be taken. "The department reaffirms its commitment to safeguarding public health and ensuring that only safe, clean, and quality food reaches the consumers," said the health department.
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