The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has taken stringent action against four Mumbai food businesses, suspending their licenses due to widespread and severe hygiene breaches. Inspections uncovered a range of alarming violations, including active pest infestations, unsafe cooking practices, and unsanitary kitchen environments.
Widespread Hygiene Failures Uncovered
During the recent crackdown, FDA officials found active infestations of cockroaches and other pests across kitchen and food storage areas. A major concern was the discovery of cooking oil being repeatedly reused, appearing darkened and highly oxidized, posing significant health risks. Inspectors also noted the alleged use of excessive artificial colors and monosodium glutamate in food preparation.
Further violations included cooked rice stored uncovered in unhygienic conditions, amidst damp walls, fungal growth, and water condensation. Cooking utensils, equipment, and knives were heavily soiled with accumulated grease, dust, and organic matter. The FDA also highlighted a critical risk of cross-contamination, as the same preparation areas, cutting boards, and equipment were used for both vegetarian and non-vegetarian food without proper segregation.
Poor drainage systems were another significant issue, with stagnant wastewater, algae, sludge, and foul odors permeating the establishments. The affected businesses in Mumbai are Akshay Caterers at Garware Institute of Career Development, Craftpac Hospitality Pvt Ltd at Jio World Drive in Bandra East, Marion Hotel and Restaurant on Gokhale Road in Dadar West, and Bhagwati Stores at Radhika Residency in Tilak Nagar, Chembur.
Licenses Suspended and Broader Crackdown
In light of these serious deficiencies, the licenses and registrations of all four food businesses were suspended with immediate effect under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. This action is part of a special, ongoing inspection drive by the Maharashtra FDA across the state, aimed at ensuring consumers have access to safe, hygienic, and quality food. The department has warned of strict legal action against any businesses found violating food safety regulations.
Separate Action in Akola Targets Adulterated Oil
In a related but separate enforcement action in Akola, FDA officials inspected Prabhudayal Laxminarayan in the MIDC area. They collected samples of refined soyabean oil sold under the 'Shakti' brand due to suspected adulteration. Irregularities found included the absence of a laboratory and laboratory reports, and the firm selling loose oil despite holding a license solely for repacking.
The FDA seized 3,428.400 kg of oil, valued at Rs 6,21,300, from Prabhudayal Laxminarayan. Similarly, 3,598.400 kg of loose refined soyabean oil, worth Rs 5,61,350, was seized from Bharatkumar and Brothers in MIDC, Akola, for suspected adulteration and similar licensing and laboratory report deficiencies. The licenses of both Akola firms were also suspended immediately, underscoring the FDA's comprehensive efforts against food safety breaches and adulteration across Maharashtra.