The Pakistan dairy sector took a decisive step toward improving public health and food safety as the Pakistan Dairy Association (PDA) convened a high-level national seminar to mark World Milk Day. Held under the theme “Safe Milk, Safe Nation: Affordable Dairy for a Healthier Nation,” the event brought together senior policymakers, industry leaders, nutrition experts, and development partners to strengthen the role of safe, packaged milk in Pakistan’s food system. The gathering highlighted the urgent need to modernize dairy practices and shift consumer behavior away from unsafe loose milk toward regulated and hygienic alternatives.
Strengthening Food Safety Through Modern Dairy Practices
Opening the session, Dr. Shehzad Amin, Chief Operating Officer of the Pakistan Dairy Association, emphasized that the widespread consumption of loose milk continues to pose serious public health risks due to contamination and lack of quality control. He stressed that transitioning to packaged milk is essential not only for protecting consumers but also for building a resilient and sustainable dairy sector. According to him, the future of Pakistan’s food security depends on adopting scientifically backed production, processing, and distribution systems.
Nutrition, Public Health, and the Role of Dairy
Highlighting the nutritional importance of milk, Ms. Farrah Naz, Country Director of GAIN Pakistan, underscored the role of dairy in combating malnutrition, stunting, and micronutrient deficiencies, particularly among children. She noted that affordable access to fortified dairy products could significantly improve national nutrition outcomes. She also emphasized the need for policy reforms, including reduced import duties on essential fortification inputs such as vitamins, minerals, and proteins, to make nutritious food more accessible to vulnerable communities.
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Innovation and Technology Driving Safer Milk Supply
Industry perspectives were shared by Mr. Noor Aftab, Director Corporate Affairs for Pakistan and the Middle East at Tetra Pak, who highlighted the importance of innovation in dairy processing and packaging. He explained that modern aseptic technologies play a critical role in preserving milk quality, extending shelf life, and ensuring food safety. According to him, strengthening technological capabilities across the value chain is essential for building a resilient and consumer-trusted dairy ecosystem in Pakistan.. Held under the theme “Safe Milk, Safe Nation: Affordable Dairy for a Healthier Nation,” the event brought together senior policymakers, industry leaders, nutrition experts, and development partners to strengthen the role of safe, packaged milk in Pakistan’s food system.
Regulatory Reform and Institutional Collaboration
The seminar also featured discussions led by key government officials, including representatives from the Punjab Food Authority and the Livestock and Dairy Development Department. They emphasized the need for stronger regulatory enforcement, standardized quality controls, and effective certification mechanisms to curb the circulation of unsafe milk. Participants stressed that collaboration between regulators, industry players, and policymakers is vital to ensure consistent food safety standards nationwide.. According to him, the future of Pakistan’s food security depends on adopting scientifically backed production, processing, and distribution systems.
Making Safe Milk Accessible to All
A dedicated session focused on affordability and access explored how safe milk can be made available to all segments of society. Experts discussed integrating dairy nutrition into public health strategies, school feeding programs, and rural development initiatives. The consensus was that safe milk should be treated as a basic nutritional necessity rather than a premium product, especially for children and low-income households.
A Unified Vision for a Healthier Pakistan
The seminar concluded with strong alignment among public and private stakeholders on the need for collective action. By fostering partnerships, strengthening regulation, and investing in innovation, the Pakistan dairy sector aims to deliver long-term improvements in public health, nutrition, and economic resilience. The event reaffirmed that a safe, modern, and inclusive dairy ecosystem is essential for building a healthier and more prosperous Pakistan.
