The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has suspended the food business licence of the Dharavi distribution centre operated by Kiranakart Technologies Pvt Ltd, the parent company of quick commerce platform Zepto, following a surprise inspection that revealed multiple violations of food safety norms.
The inspection, conducted on Saturday by food safety officer Ram Bodke under the supervision of Joint Commissioner Mangesh Mane and on directives from Minister of State for FDA Yogesh Kadam, uncovered a series of serious lapses under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
Key violations cited by the FDA included visible fungal growth on food products, stagnant water and poor sanitation near storage areas, failure to maintain proper cold storage temperatures, unclean and wet floors, and disorganized storage, with food items placed directly on the ground. The inspection also found expired food items stored alongside fresh inventory, with no clear segregation.
In response, the FDA issued an immediate suspension order under Section 32(3) of the Food Safety Act and Regulation 2.1.8(4) of the Licensing and Registration Rules. The outlet has been directed to cease operations until full compliance is demonstrated and formal clearance is granted.
“Public health cannot be compromised. We are committed to strict and transparent enforcement,” said FDA Commissioner Rajesh Narvekar, emphasizing the administration’s ongoing efforts to curb unsafe food handling practices.
The Dharavi outlet’s licence will remain suspended pending a successful follow-up inspection and regulatory approval. The FDA, under the Department of Medical Education and Pharmaceuticals, continues to play a critical role in safeguarding public health through the enforcement of food, drug, and cosmetic regulations across the state.
