After the Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) raided Zepto‘s Dharavi outlet and suspended its food business license for violating hygiene rules, the state FDA plans to inspect the facilities of other quick commerce companies, including Blinkit and Instamart, to ensure compliance with food safety standards.
A recent inspection at Zepto’s Mumbai facility uncovered multiple violations of food safety and hygiene regulations, prompting action against the company. The inspection revealed lapses at the company’s distribution centre, leading to the suspension of its food business license.
According to sources, the Maharashtra Health Minister has directed the Food and Drug regulator to conduct thorough inspections at all food delivery companies’ facilities in the state, following the recent action against Zepto for violating hygiene regulations.
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The Maharashtra FDA, under the guidance of Minister of State for FDA Yogesh Kadam, conducted inspections at Zepto’s Dharavi store and godowns. Led by Food Safety Officer Ram Bodke and supervised by Joint Commissioner Mangesh Mane, the probe aimed to evaluate compliance with the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and related licensing regulations.
The FDA’s inspection at Zepto’s distribution centre revealed serious violations of food safety norms. The findings included visible fungal growth on several food items, posing a direct health risk to consumers, stagnant and clogged water near storage areas indicating poor hygiene and maintenance, and improper cold storage practices.
Inspectors found that Zepto’s cold storage units weren’t maintaining the required temperatures, putting perishable food items at risk. Additionally, the floors were wet and unclean, and food products were stored randomly, with some directly on the ground, increasing contamination risks.
Following the inspection findings, the FDA swiftly suspended the food business license of Zepto’s Dharavi outlet, effectively halting operations until corrective measures are taken and compliance is ensured. This decisive action highlights the regulator’s commitment to upholding food safety standards and protecting consumer health.
Zepto, a fast-growing grocery delivery startup operated by Kiranakart Technologies, promises quick delivery within minutes to urban consumers. With rapid expansion across Indian cities, maintaining food safety compliance and effective supply chain management is crucial for the company’s operations.
This enforcement action serves as a warning to food delivery and e-commerce platforms about the importance of adhering to strict hygiene and food safety protocols. As consumers increasingly rely on these services, regulators are intensifying scrutiny to protect public health.
The FDA has ordered Zepto’s Dharavi outlet to rectify all noted violations and undergo a new inspection before its license can be reinstated. Non-compliance may result in additional penalties, such as closure of other outlets or legal action under the Food Safety and Standards Act.
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