Maharashtra FDA Seizes 3.53 Lakh Kg of Patanjali Products
Maharashtra's FDA confiscates over 3.5 lakh kg of goods and suspends licenses amid safety violations.
Maharashtra FDA confiscated 3,53,000 kg of products valued at ₹9.01 crore.
19 licenses were revoked, leading to 13 FIRs and 16 arrests.
Major seizures included 2,279.7 litres of ghee from a Patanjali distributor.
The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) conducted extensive inspections from October 28 to 31, resulting in significant actions against several food establishments. During this operation, the FDA confiscated a staggering 3,53,000 kg of various products, with a total estimated value of ₹9.01 crore. The crackdown led to the suspension of 19 licenses, the filing of 13 FIRs, and the arrest of 16 individuals involved in the violations.
Among the notable seizures was 2,279.7 litres of ghee, valued at ₹20.20 lakh, taken from Divya Mahavitarak, a distributor for Patanjali, located in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. Officials are investigating the possibility that the seized ghee may have been misbranded or adulterated, raising concerns about consumer safety and product integrity.
In addition to the ghee, the FDA also confiscated 1,44,218 kg of oil from Avenue Supermarts in Bhiwandi and 20,560 kg of products from Amin Traders in Satara. The inspections revealed serious hygiene issues and violations of safety regulations across multiple facilities, leading to the closure of seven establishments and the seizure of six vehicles involved in the distribution of these goods.
The affected establishments included those producing namkeen, sweets, and spices, operating in major cities such as Mumbai, Amravati, and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. The FDA's actions underscore the agency's commitment to ensuring food safety and compliance with health regulations, particularly in light of the rising consumer concerns regarding food quality.
Looking ahead, the FDA plans to continue its rigorous inspections and enforcement actions to safeguard public health. Further investigations are expected to follow, with additional measures likely to be implemented to prevent future violations and ensure that food products meet safety standards.
