Maharashtra FDA Suspends Licences of 25 Food Establishments
The Maharashtra FDA has taken strict action against 25 food outlets, including Domino's, for violating safety standards.
25 food establishments, including six Domino's outlets, had their licenses suspended.
The FDA seized over 81,000 kg of substandard food products worth Rs 1.73 crore.
Inspections revealed serious hygiene violations in various eateries and kitchens.
The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has suspended the licenses of 25 food establishments, including six Domino's Pizza outlets located in Pune, as part of a crackdown on violations of food safety and hygiene regulations. This action was taken following inspections that revealed significant breaches of the Food Safety and Standards (Licensing and Registration of Food Businesses) Regulations, 2011, with the press release issued by the FDA on October 16 detailing these findings.
The inspections targeted a range of food businesses, including hotels, restaurants, and canteens, across multiple regions including Mumbai, Pune, and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. Notably, inspections at the Fortis Hospital kitchen in Mulund uncovered unsanitary conditions, including cockroach infestations and food waste. Additionally, the Sophia College Canteen was among the establishments that faced suspension due to similar violations.
In a broader enforcement initiative, the FDA seized approximately 81,330 kg of food products deemed substandard from 37 establishments across six divisions. The seized items included edible oils, spices, and sweets, with a total value of Rs 1.73 crore. Samples of these products have been sent for laboratory analysis, and further legal actions are anticipated based on the results.
The implications of these actions are significant for public health and safety in Maharashtra. The FDA's rigorous inspections serve as a warning to food businesses about the importance of adhering to hygiene standards. The crackdown is expected to enhance consumer confidence in food safety, particularly in light of the upcoming festive season when food consumption typically increases.
Looking ahead, the FDA plans to continue its inspections and enforcement actions to ensure compliance with food safety regulations. The agency is also expected to release further updates on the outcomes of the seized products' laboratory tests, which will inform subsequent legal actions against the establishments involved.
