Food Quality and Safety in Pakistan’s Agrifood Sector: A Review of Regulatory Frameworks, Innovation Diffusion, and Capacity‐Building Priorities

Abstract

This comprehensive review critically examines the current landscape of food quality and safety within the agrifood industry, with a particular emphasis on the Pakistani context. The study employed a systematic literature review approach, drawing on peer‐reviewed journal articles, policy reports, and international guidelines published between 2000 and 2024. Databases including ScienceDirect , SpringerLink , Wiley Online Library , and PubMed were searched using key terms such as “food safety,” “agri‐food quality control,” “HACCP,” and “government regulations.” Inclusion criteria focused on studies addressing regulatory frameworks, consumer behavior, and value chain governance in the agrifood sector, while non‐English and non–peer‐reviewed publications were excluded. The findings reveal that the effectiveness of food safety and quality management in Pakistan is constrained by fragmented regulatory mechanisms, limited technological adaptation, and insufficient consumer awareness. Government interventions, though essential, remain inconsistent and often fail to address market failures caused by information asymmetry and inadequate enforcement. Furthermore, private sector initiatives, including the adoption of HACCP and ISO‐based quality assurance systems, have shown significant potential in improving traceability and consumer confidence when effectively implemented. The review also highlights the pivotal role of retailers and vertically integrated value chains in shaping food safety practices, demonstrating that collaborative governance models can enhance compliance and sustainability. Overall, this study underscores the need for integrated policy reforms, capacity‐building programs, and advanced traceability systems to strengthen Pakistan’s food safety framework. By synthesizing international and national evidence, this review provides a foundation for policymakers, industry stakeholders, and researchers to develop data‐driven strategies for ensuring sustainable food security and consumer protection.