The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has suspended the food business licenses of six establishments, including a prominent restaurant in Mumbai, due to unhygienic kitchens, expired food stock, and misbranded products. The action was taken after inspections revealed violations at Flint & Waarsa in Nariman Point and five other establishments in different locations across the state. Officials found misbranded food products at Flint & Waarsa and collected samples for analysis.
During the inspections, authorities discovered unhygienic kitchen conditions, including the presence of cockroaches and rats, improper storage of raw food, and inadequate refrigeration facilities at the establishments. Some places lacked mandatory documentation, and food handlers had not undergone necessary health check-ups. Additionally, there was no proper mechanism in place to address customer complaints.
The FDA suspended the licenses of all six establishments due to serious violations related to hygiene, food safety, and regulatory compliance. This enforcement action was part of a statewide drive conducted between June 26 and June 28, where 31 inspections were carried out across Maharashtra. Prohibited food products worth Rs 34.87 lakh, including pan masala and gutkha, were seized during the drive. Nineteen individuals were arrested for involvement in the sale, distribution, and transportation of banned food items, and one establishment was sealed while three vehicles were seized.
The FDA emphasized its commitment to strict enforcement measures to ensure the availability of safe and quality food products. The department stated that it would take legal action against those found violating food safety norms.
