Maharashtra FDA seizes food worth Rs 63.45 crore ahead of Diwali
The agency inspected over 9,600 establishments and suspended 954 licences during a two-month enforcement drive.
The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) seized 3,098.46 metric tonnes of food products valued at Rs 63.45 crore during a two-month drive from September 1 to November 3, according to The Indian Express.
FDA Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe said the agency inspected 9,667 food establishments and collected 8,835 samples for testing. The enforcement included the suspension of 954 food business licences and the commencement of proceedings to cancel 25 more.
Salt, spices, and condiments comprised the largest share of the seizures at Rs 21.09 crore. Edible oils followed at Rs 16.31 crore, while milk products such as ghee and khava were valued at Rs 7.63 crore. The agency also seized dry fruits worth Rs 7.47 crore.
A special drive conducted between October 15 and November 3 resulted in the seizure of 1,886.44 metric tonnes of food worth Rs 44.37 crore. During this period, officials inspected 3,332 establishments and suspended 326 licences.
The crackdown covered various sectors, including manufacturing units, retail shops, hotels, and e-commerce platforms. The FDA noted that dark stores and fulfilment centres must hold separate valid FSSAI licences.
Regarding online deliveries, the FDA mandated that food must have at least 45 days or 30 per cent of its shelf life remaining at the time of delivery. Officials also monitored khava and mawa brought into the state from other regions.