Zoobia Tahir, Corporate Manufacturing Services Head at Nestlé, underscored the importance of strong industry leadership in ensuring safer food systems during a panel discussion on “Transforming Pakistan’s Food Safety to Meet International Standards,” hosted by the College of Tourism and Hotel Management (COTHM).
Speaking to an audience of hospitality students, food industry professionals, and sector stakeholders, Zoobia Tahir highlighted that maintaining food safety requires consistent oversight and responsibility across every stage of the food production process.
She emphasized that safe food practices must start from the sourcing of raw materials and continue through manufacturing, processing, and distribution. According to her, companies must implement robust internal monitoring systems and clear accountability frameworks to ensure that food reaching consumers meets the highest safety and quality standards.
“Food safety must begin at the source and continue throughout the entire production chain. Strong internal systems and accountability are essential to deliver safe food to consumers,” she said.
Tahir also stressed the importance of continuous improvement and professional training within the food industry. She noted that businesses must remain committed to adopting global best practices in order to build consumer trust and strengthen Pakistan’s reputation in the international food market.
The panel discussion brought together experts from the food industry, regulatory bodies, and international organizations to explore practical strategies for improving food safety standards and aligning Pakistan’s food systems with globally recognized benchmarks.
Zoobia Tahir’s remarks highlighted the crucial role that responsible industry leadership plays in shaping a safer and more reliable food ecosystem in Pakistan.
At the conclusion of the session, Founder, President and CEO of COTHM, Ahmad Shafiq, presented Zoobia Tahir with a certificate of appreciation in recognition of her valuable time and the insightful perspectives she shared during the panel discussion. The gesture acknowledged her meaningful contribution to the dialogue on improving food safety standards in Pakistan and her efforts to guide the industry towards stronger quality and safety practices.
