In a serious development raising concerns about food safety in the quick commerce industry, Maharashtra’s Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has suspended the food business license of Zepto’s Dharavi facility in Mumbai.
The action was taken against Kiranakart Technologies Pvt. Ltd., Zepto’s parent company, after a surprise inspection on May 31 revealed alarming violations of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
During the inspection, led by food safety officer Ram Bodke under the direction of Minister of State for FDA Yogesh Kadam and supervision of Joint Commissioner Mangesh Mane, authorities discovered food items contaminated with fungal growth.
Stagnant and clogged water surrounded storage areas, creating conditions ideal for pest infestations. Cold storage units were not operating at the required temperatures, and food products were found stored directly on wet and dirty floors.
Expired products were also mixed with fresh stock, violating fundamental safety protocols. The FDA labeled these findings as gross non-compliance and a clear risk to public health.
The facility’s license was immediately suspended under Section 32(3) of the Food Safety and Standards Act and Regulation 2.1.8(4) of the 2011 Licensing and Registration of Food Businesses Regulations. The license will remain suspended until the facility meets all safety standards and receives official clearance.
FDA Commissioner Rajesh Narvekar emphasized that the agency would continue strict inspections to safeguard consumer health.
In response, Zepto stated that food safety and hygiene are non-negotiable and that the company has launched an internal review. Zepto added that it is fully cooperating with authorities to ensure compliance and resume operations safely.
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