LAHORE: A nationwide survey on milk quality and safety, conducted by the University of Veterinary and Animal Sciences (UVAS), indicates that 54 per cent of loose milk samples were found unsuitable for human consumption, and a striking 92 per cent did not comply with quality and safety standards.

This survey was done in 11 cities across Pakistan and included the collection of 1,206 samples during both winter and summer seasons. The research assessed compliance with five crucial quality and safety parameters, encompassing composition, adulteration, antibiotic residues, aflatoxin M1, and heavy metals.

The detailed research findings were presented during a special health seminar held in Lahore on Tuesday. The seminar was graced by the presence of Associate Professor Dr. Azmat Ullah Khan from the Department of Food Science & Human Nutrition, who shared the outcomes of the survey.

Also in attendance at the seminar were notable figures, includ-ing UVAS Vice-Chancellor Prof.

Dr. Nasim Ahmed, University of Education VC Prof Dr Talat Naseer Pasha, and PMA President Prof. Dr. Ashraf Nizami.

According to the report, Pakistan is the fourth largest millc producing country in the world, but around 95 percent of the milk consumed is loose milk, which reaches the end consumer through an informal and unregulated multi-layered distribution system of middlemen. This traditional loose milk supply chain system lacks proper transportation and storage facilities, resulting in serious food safety issues at consumer level.

The report said loose milk is highly perishable and susceptible to microbial growth and survival, and is a vehicle of foodborne pathogens. In addition to microbial contamination, residues from antimicrobial drugs, pesticides, mycotoxins, heavy metals and adulterants have also been found in loose milk that pose serious risk to public health. The report recommended intervention by regulatory authorities and mass awareness of the consequences for consumer health and safety.