Vinod Ghalop | Mumbai
FDA launches coordinated enforcement drive against food adulteration and unsafe food businesses.
In one of the biggest food safety enforcement drives in recent months, the Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has seized food products worth ₹6.33 crore and arrested 21 individuals during coordinated raids conducted across the state.
The statewide operation targeted businesses suspected of manufacturing, storing and selling adulterated, substandard and unsafe food products in violation of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. Officials said the action was part of an intensified campaign to safeguard public health and ensure consumers have access to safe and hygienic food.
Food worth ₹6.33 crore seized during inspections across multiple districts. Twenty-one individuals arrested for violating food safety laws and related offences.
The FDA carried out inspections at multiple locations, including food manufacturing units, warehouses, wholesale markets, retail establishments and storage facilities. During the raids, officials allegedly found food products that failed to meet prescribed quality and safety standards.
Authorities seized food items valued at approximately ₹6.33 crore and initiated legal proceedings against those found violating food safety regulations.
As part of the enforcement drive, 21 people were arrested for their alleged involvement in offences related to the manufacture, storage and distribution of unsafe or adulterated food products.
Officials said further investigations are underway to identify additional individuals and businesses that may be linked to the supply chain.
Authorities Intensify Surveillance, Warn of Tougher Action Against Repeat Offenders to Strengthen Food Safety and Protect Consumers.
The Maharashtra FDA reiterated that food adulteration poses a serious threat to public health and that strict action will continue against anyone compromising food quality for commercial gain.
The department urged food business operators to strictly comply with licensing requirements, hygiene standards, labelling norms and quality control measures prescribed under the Food Safety and Standards Act.
FDA officials warned that businesses found repeatedly violating food safety regulations could face prosecution, licence suspension or cancellation, seizure of goods and criminal action under applicable laws.
The department also appealed to consumers to report suspected cases of food adulteration or unsafe food products to the concerned authorities, stating that public participation plays an important role in ensuring food safety.
The Maharashtra FDA said inspection drives and surprise raids will continue across the state as part of its ongoing efforts to curb food adulteration and protect consumer health.