Maharashtra FDA Conducts Major Raids in Thane Food Units
The Maharashtra FDA has seized over 28,000 kg of food materials and products worth Rs 20.48 lakh during raids on 11 food units in Thane.
FDA seized 28,955 kg of food materials and products.
Raids conducted in Thane's Shil-Diva area as part of a strict enforcement campaign.
Licenses of several eateries suspended due to safety violations.
In a significant enforcement action, the Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) raided 11 food manufacturing units located in the Shil-Diva area of Thane, seizing a total of 28,955 kg of raw materials and finished food products valued at approximately Rs 20.48 lakh. The operation took place on Wednesday, targeting facilities in Khardi Village, as reported by ANI.
The FDA's commissioner, Tukaram Munde, emphasized the state's commitment to maintaining high food safety standards, stating, "The Government of Maharashtra maintains a strict zero-tolerance policy regarding food quality and enforcement of food safety laws." He warned that any compromise on public health or consumer safety would not be tolerated, and strict legal actions would be pursued against those involved in selling or storing expired or adulterated food items.
During the raids, the FDA confiscated a variety of food products, including potato wafers, farali chivda, mixed farsan, bhakarwadi, schezwan sticks, banana chips, refined flour, gram flour, and palm oil. The operation is part of a broader initiative aimed at ensuring food safety across the state, which has seen the suspension of licenses for several prominent eateries in Mumbai and other regions due to significant safety violations.
The implications of these actions extend beyond the immediate seizures, as the FDA has mandated that organizers of mass food distribution events during festivals must submit a notification form on the Food & Drug Grievance Portal at least seven days prior to the event. This measure aims to enhance oversight and ensure compliance with food safety regulations.
Looking ahead, the FDA plans to continue its rigorous enforcement of food safety laws, with further actions anticipated against establishments that fail to adhere to hygiene and safety standards. The agency's recent inspections also included base kitchens and food plazas catering to railway passengers, highlighting a comprehensive approach to food safety across various sectors.
