Maharashtra FDA seizes food products worth over Rs 9 crore during crackdown
The state-wide inspection drive resulted in 16 arrests and the suspension of 19 food business licences.
The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has seized food products worth over Rs 9 crore during a statewide inspection drive conducted between October 28 and 31, according to reports by WION and Rediff.
The enforcement campaign, which targeted 114 establishments across seven divisions, resulted in 16 people being arrested and 13 FIRs being registered. Officials also suspended the licences of 19 food business operators and sealed seven establishments.
In Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar, officials seized 2,279.7 litres of Patanjali cow ghee valued at Rs 20.20 lakh from a distributor, M/s Divya Mahavitarak, due to suspected misbranding and adulteration. Other major seizures included 1,44,218 kg of edible oil from Avenue Supermarts Ltd in Bhiwandi and 20,560 kg of rice, pulses, and jaggery from Amin Traders in Satara.
In Mumbai, 4,002 kg of sweets worth Rs 11.11 lakh were seized from a luxury bus in Chembur on Monday. The FDA stated the items were being transported in unhygienic conditions without temperature control.
FDA Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe said the department has intensified inspections of packaged flour, spices, and festive snacks following reports of expired flour being sold. Mundhe noted that the department has already seized approximately 28,000 quintals of edible oil and nearly 20,000 quintals of spices.
The commissioner stated that the action is not intended to harass legitimate traders but warned that those violating food safety rules will face strict action. The next phase of enforcement will focus on retailers, wholesalers, and dealers during the Diwali period.