Maharashtra FDA Inspects 3,137 Food Outlets, Suspends 165 Licences

The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has conducted a massive inspection of food establishments across the state, resulting in the suspension of 165 licences and the seizure of Rs 55.72 crore worth of food products.

Since May 25, 2026, when IAS officer Tukaram Mundhe took charge as FDA Commissioner, the department has inspected 3,137 food establishments. Of these, 2,373 (75.6%) did not require any corrective action, while improvement notices were issued to 764 establishments (24.4%).

The FDA's enforcement drive has been focused on ensuring compliance with food safety norms, particularly in the hospitality sector. The department inspected 890 hotels, restaurants, and dhabas, accounting for 28.4% of all inspections carried out during the period.

Of the establishments inspected in the hospitality sector, 561 (63%) were found compliant, while 329 (37%) were issued improvement notices. A total of 116 licences (13% of those inspected) were suspended after officials found serious violations of food safety and hygiene norms.

The FDA has also intensified its crackdown on prohibited food products, seizing products worth Rs 15.11 crore from 658 establishments. The enforcement drive has resulted in the registration of 599 FIRs, the arrest of 701 persons, and the sealing of 407 establishments.

Several prominent establishments have been affected by the FDA's enforcement drive, including the Cricket Club of India (CCI) and the Wellington Sports Club, which had their food business licences suspended due to serious food safety and hygiene deficiencies.

The FDA Commissioner, Tukaram Mundhe, has stated that the department will continue its zero-tolerance approach against food adulteration, unhygienic food handling, and the sale of unsafe or prohibited food products.

The inspection drive has covered the period between May 25 and July 31, and the figures reflect one of the state's largest food safety enforcement drives in recent years.

The Maharashtra government has also banned analogue paneer for one year after 35.4% of samples failed FDA quality tests.

The FDA's enforcement drive is a significant step towards ensuring food safety and hygiene in the state, and the department's efforts are expected to continue in the coming months.

The action taken by the FDA is a positive move towards protecting the health and well-being of consumers in Maharashtra, and it is expected to have a significant impact on the food industry in the state.

In conclusion, the Maharashtra FDA's inspection drive has resulted in significant action being taken against establishments that violate food safety norms, and the department's efforts are expected to continue in the coming months.

The FDA's zero-tolerance approach towards food adulteration and unhygienic food handling is a welcome move, and it is expected to have a positive impact on the health and well-being of consumers in Maharashtra.