Key Takeaways
- PYCA urges PSQCA to maintain independence in food standards.
- Concerns raised over potential industry influence undermining public health.
- PSQCA asked to ensure checks on proposed changes to NSCAF.
Pakistan Youth Change Advocates (PYCA) has called for increased transparency and independence in the country’s food standards-setting process, urging the Pakistan Standards and Quality Control Authority (PSQCA) to take stringent measures.
In a statement, PYCA highlighted the need to prevent commercial interests from compromising public health, particularly in light of proposed changes to the National Standard Setting Committee for Agriculture and Food Products (NSCAF).
The advocacy group emphasized that any changes to the committee must be carefully monitored to ensure that they do not allow industry influence to dominate the process, potentially jeopardizing the safety and quality of food products in the market.
PYCA’s call for action comes as the PSQCA is considering revisions to the NSCAF, which plays a critical role in setting and enforcing food safety standards across the country.
The group’s concerns are based on the belief that unchecked industry influence could lead to a lack of accountability and oversight, ultimately harming public health and consumer trust.
In response to PYCA’s appeal, PSQCA has been advised to establish robust mechanisms to ensure that the committee remains free from commercial pressures and operates with full transparency.
The PSQCA has been urged to maintain a balance between industry input and public health considerations, ensuring that any changes to the NSCAF are made in a manner that upholds the integrity of the food standards-setting process.
PYCA’s statement reflects a growing awareness among civil society groups about the importance of safeguarding public health through stringent regulatory measures, particularly in the food sector.
