Maharashtra FDA Cracks Down on Food Quality: ₹20.20 Lakh Ghee Seized
Major Action Against Food Quality in Maharashtra
In Maharashtra, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has launched a significant initiative to combat food adulteration and ensure quality. During this operation, a substantial quantity of cow ghee valued at ₹20.20 lakh was confiscated from a super distributor of Patanjali Ayurved. The action was prompted by concerns over misleading packaging and potential adulteration.
2,279.7 Liters of Ghee Seized in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar
According to the FDA, 2,279.7 liters of cow ghee were seized from the super distributor, M/s Divya Mahavitrak, located in Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. The estimated value of this ghee is ₹20.20 lakh, with a total of 4,032 units taken into custody. Initial investigations raised doubts regarding the branding and quality of the product, although final conclusions regarding adulteration will be determined after further examination.
Licenses of 19 Businesses Suspended
In light of the festive season, the Maharashtra FDA conducted a special inspection campaign across the state. Inspections were carried out in various regions, including Mumbai, Amravati, and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar. As a result, the licenses or registrations of 19 establishments were suspended, including those involved in the production of snacks, sweets, and spices.
During the inspections, several establishments were found lacking in cleanliness, proper food storage, pest control measures, and essential record-keeping. The FDA has taken action against businesses that failed to comply with food safety regulations.
Food Items Worth ₹9.01 Crore Confiscated
According to information released by the FDA, approximately 3.53 lakh kilograms of food items were seized from 114 establishments across seven divisions in Maharashtra during the campaign, with a total estimated value of ₹9.01 crore. This haul included cooking oils, spices, rice, lentils, sweets, and other food products.
In Bhivandi, 1,44,218 kilograms of cooking oil were confiscated from Avenue Supermart, while in Satara, Amin Traders had 20,560 kilograms of rice, lentils, jaggery, and other food items seized.
13 FIRs Filed and 16 Arrests Made in Four Days
Between October 28 and 31, the campaign resulted in the filing of 13 FIRs related to violations of food safety regulations and cases involving banned food items. During this period, 16 individuals were arrested, seven establishments were sealed, and six vehicles were confiscated.
The FDA emphasizes that due to the increased demand for food items during the festive season, there will be heightened scrutiny on their quality and safety. The department has instructed businesses to adhere to food safety standards and urged consumers to check labels, batch numbers, and packaging information when purchasing packaged food products.