The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA), under Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe, has intensified its crackdown on food businesses violating safety and hygiene standards across the state. Several establishments in Mumbai and Thane have faced licence suspensions or further legal action following inspections.
The FDA suspended the licences of seven food establishments in Mumbai after inspections uncovered serious hygiene and food-handling violations.
At Shri Gajanan Vadapav and Snacks Centre in Kanjurmarg, officials found inadequate temperature monitoring, poor pest control and an open kitchen. Inappropriate materials were also reportedly used for food-contact equipment.
Samarth Sweets in Jogeshwari was found with open drains, garbage near the entrance and an inefficient production layout that could increase the risk of cross-contamination. Personal belongings were also stored in the production area.
Ekvira Zunka Bhakar Centre and Manisha Sweets in Mulund East faced action over poor ventilation, open food preparation areas, inadequate storage arrangements and unhygienic conditions.
At Nawab Seekh Corner, officials reportedly found ants in stored semolina, uncovered raw meat and poor separation of raw, cooked and ready-to-eat food. Hotel Adinath was cited for deficiencies in refrigeration, food storage, ventilation and pest control.
Jai Maharashtra Masala Dosa Corner was also ordered to stop operations following findings of pest activity, poor sanitation and inadequate pest-control measures.
Acting on confidential information, FDA officials raided food manufacturing units around Bhaskar Compound, Khadi Gaon and Shil-Diva Road in Thane. The inspections covered businesses producing farsan, wafers, chiwda, namkeen and other food products.
Officials seized nearly 28,000 kg of food products and raw materials, along with 56 litres of used cooking oil, with the total value estimated at INR 20,48,801.50.
The seized items included potato wafers, farsan, sev, bhakarwadi, chiwda, banana chips, flour, besan and edible oils. Officials reported dirty production areas, stagnant wastewater, pest infestations, poor drainage and inadequate protective clothing for workers. Several businesses were also found operating without valid food licences.
The Maharashtra FDA has also introduced a prior-intimation requirement for community food distribution events such as Bhandara, Langar and Mahaprasad. Organisers using licensed or registered caterers or kitchens must submit the prescribed online form at least seven days before the event.
Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe warned that violations affecting public health would invite strict legal action. Citizens can report food-quality complaints through the FDA's toll-free helpline at 1800222365.
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