Maharashtra FDA Suspends 30 Food Licenses Amid Hygiene Violations
In a statewide crackdown, the Maharashtra FDA has suspended 30 food licenses and seized over ₹1 crore worth of food stock due to severe hygiene issues.
30 food licenses suspended across Maharashtra for hygiene violations.
Over 50,000 kg of food stock worth ₹1.19 crore seized during inspections.
Legal actions initiated against multiple establishments for non-compliance with food safety standards.
The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has taken significant action by suspending 30 food licenses and seizing a staggering 50,601.78 kg of food stock valued at ₹1.19 crore between September 23 and 27. This enforcement action is part of a broader initiative to ensure food safety during the festive season across the state.
The FDA's crackdown involved suspensions of licenses from various establishments, including 13 in Mumbai, six in the Konkan division, eight in Pune, and three in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. Notable establishments facing scrutiny include Kyani & Co, Colaba Sweet Mart, and Subway, which were cited for serious violations of food safety and hygiene regulations.
During inspections, alarming conditions were discovered. At Kyani & Co in Kalbadevi, inspectors found evidence of pest infestations, including live flies and dead cockroaches, along with unsanitary food storage practices. Similarly, Colaba Sweet Mart was found lacking essential pest control measures and had numerous hygiene violations. The FDA has also initiated legal proceedings against several other establishments for breaching the Food Safety and Standards Act.
The impact of these inspections extends beyond immediate suspensions. The FDA seized food products across multiple districts, including Pune, Kolhapur, and Solapur, with a total of 6,366.88 kg of items worth ₹28.54 lakh confiscated. These included various dairy products and snacks, many of which were suspected to be unsafe or improperly labeled. The FDA's actions reflect a commitment to public health and safety, particularly in light of the upcoming festive season.
Looking ahead, the FDA has pledged to maintain rigorous enforcement of food safety regulations. Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe emphasized the government's resolve to take strict legal action against any establishments found to be selling or storing expired or unhygienic food products. Further inspections and legal actions are anticipated as the FDA continues its efforts to uphold food safety standards across Maharashtra.
