The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has suspended the food license of a Blinkit store in Malad West, Mumbai, following a stringent inspection that uncovered numerous hygiene and food storage violations. The quick-commerce facility was found to have expired food products, an infestation of cockroaches, and poorly maintained infrastructure.
Maharashtra FDA Action Against Blinkit
The inspection, conducted on August 7, revealed alarming conditions at the Blinkit facility. Officials observed a substantial number of cockroaches on fruit and vegetable stock, food items stored directly on the floor, and rusty storage racks. Additionally, the cold-storage areas were poorly maintained, and pest and rodent control measures were deemed inadequate.
Further findings included food products that had expired, were damaged, or appeared tampered with. The store also failed to adhere to critical food safety protocols such as the First In, First Out (FIFO) and First Expiry, First Out (FEFO) systems for organizing food items, which are essential for managing product freshness and safety.
Violations Highlighted
- Presence of a large number of cockroaches on food stock.
- Food items stored directly on the floor.
- Rusty storage racks and poorly maintained cold-storage areas.
- Inadequate pest and rodent control measures.
- Expired, damaged, or tampered food products.
- Failure to implement FIFO and FEFO storage systems.
- Shortcomings in waste management.
- Inadequate personal hygiene of employees handling food.
- Insufficient medical examinations, health records, and personal protective equipment (PPE) for food handlers.
Following these severe breaches, the FDA suspended the food license of Blink Commerce Private Limited under Section 32(3) of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. The order mandates that all food business operations at the establishment cease until further instructions from the regulatory body.
Wider Food Safety Enforcement
This action against Blinkit is part of a broader food safety enforcement drive initiated by the Maharashtra FDA under Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe. Between May 25 and July 31, the department carried out inspections at 3,137 food establishments, including hotels, restaurants, and eateries, across Mumbai.
During this period, the FDA issued 764 improvement notices and suspended 165 licenses, demonstrating a strong commitment to public health. Approximately 28.66 lakh kg of food products, valued at ₹55.72 crore, were seized or destroyed due to non-compliance.
Commissioner Mundhe clarified that a license suspension does not necessarily equate to permanent closure. Establishments are granted an opportunity to rectify the identified violations. The FDA conducts subsequent hearings and verification of compliance before making a final decision on revoking the suspension.
The department has urged citizens to actively report any food safety violations, reinforcing that any compromise with food quality and hygiene will not be tolerated within the state.