The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in Maharashtra has taken stringent action against a Blinkit quick-commerce facility in Akola, suspending its state food license following a re-inspection that confirmed significant hygiene and storage lapses. This move is part of a broader crackdown on food safety across the state, led by FDA Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe.
Akola Blinkit Outlet Cited for Multiple Violations
Officials initiated the license suspension for Blink Commerce Private Limited's Akola outlet after a follow-up inspection revealed a host of serious violations. These included food packets being stored directly on the floor and non-food items sharing racks with food products, indicating poor storage practices. The premises also suffered from accumulated dust and garbage, with no evidence of a regular cleaning schedule.
Further compounding the issues, employees were observed not using essential hygiene gear like gloves and headgear. The outlet also failed to produce required purchase and sales invoices, as well as audit records, raising concerns about operational transparency and traceability.
Wider Enforcement Targets Other Establishments
The Akola incident is not isolated, reflecting a concerted effort by the Maharashtra FDA to ensure food safety compliance. Other establishments recently impacted by the regulatory body's actions include:
- Gulzar Mohmmadi Hotel, Kurla (West): Its registration certificate was suspended after an inspection uncovered severe structural filth and a widespread cockroach infestation, leading to a dismal score of 24 out of 88 points.
- Blinkit Outlet, Malad West: Another Blinkit facility faced license suspension due to significant hygiene and food storage violations, including cockroaches found on fruit and vegetable stock, food items on the floor, rusty racks, and poorly maintained cold storage. Expired and tampered products, along with lapses in stock rotation (FIFO/FEFO), waste management, and employee hygiene, were also noted.
- Dairy Facility, Miraj Taluka: A raid on a dairy facility resulted in the seizure and destruction of 151 litres of unsafe milk. Inspectors also reported an alleged attempt to illegally tamper with official department seals on a cream separator.
State-Wide Drive for Food Safety
Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe's enforcement drive has been extensive. Between May 25 and July 31, the FDA inspected 3,137 food establishments across Mumbai alone. This resulted in 764 improvement notices and 165 license suspensions. During this period, food products weighing 28.66 lakh kg, valued at Rs 55.72 crore, were either seized or destroyed.
While 103 establishments have appealed their suspensions, with interim relief granted in some cases after compliance verification, Mundhe emphasized that suspensions are not necessarily permanent closures. Establishments are given opportunities to rectify violations before final hearings. The FDA continues to urge citizens to report any food safety concerns.