Mumbai Clubs Lose FSSAI Licences Over Food Safety Violations

The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has suspended the FSSAI licences of five elite Mumbai clubs, including The Cricket Club of India (CCI), RK Juhu Gymkhana, The Aparna Juhu Gymkhana, MIG Cricket Club, and The Willingdon Sports Club, with immediate effect. The action was taken after surprise inspections on July 27 revealed serious hygiene and food safety lapses.

The inspections, carried out under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, uncovered widespread violations, including cockroach and fly infestation, mouldy and expired food items, and poor segregation of vegetarian and non-vegetarian food. The FDA also found blocked drains, grease accumulation, unhygienic kitchen conditions, and improper food storage.

A senior FDA official stated that many of these premises, some of which are over 80 to 90 years old, have maintained their front areas well but have neglected their sewage systems and kitchens. The official described the condition of these areas as 'pathetic'.

The most serious findings were at The Cricket Club of India (CCI), where inspectors found heavy cockroach and fly infestation, water dripping onto food stored in cold rooms, and mouldy vegetables. The FDA also noted the absence of colour-coded chopping boards, increasing the risk of cross-contamination. CCI has temporarily suspended its kitchen and bakery operations until further notice.

At MIG Cricket Club, the FDA found an unauthorised catering agency operating on the premises without a valid FSSAI licence. Inspectors also reported improper food storage, unhygienic conditions, and lack of mandatory medical records for food handlers.

The FDA's action is a significant step towards ensuring food safety in the city. The suspension of licences will remain in effect until the clubs rectify the violations and obtain new licences.

The clubs have been given a chance to restore their licences by addressing the violations and improving their food safety standards. However, the FDA has made it clear that it will not tolerate any negligence in food safety.

The action taken by the FDA is a wake-up call for all food establishments in the city to prioritize food safety and hygiene. It is essential for consumers to be aware of the food safety standards of the establishments they frequent.

In addition to the suspension of licences, Goregaon Sports Club in Malad West has been issued a Stop Business Notice for allegedly operating without the mandatory food business licence. Another establishment was served an improvement notice.

The FDA's crackdown on food safety violations is a positive step towards protecting the health and well-being of consumers in Mumbai. It is crucial for all food establishments to take food safety seriously and maintain high standards of hygiene and quality.

The suspension of licences of these elite clubs serves as a reminder that food safety is a critical issue that requires attention and action from all stakeholders. It is essential for consumers, establishments, and regulatory bodies to work together to ensure that food safety standards are met and maintained.

In conclusion, the FDA's action against these elite clubs is a significant step towards ensuring food safety in Mumbai. It is crucial for all food establishments to prioritize food safety and hygiene to protect the health and well-being of consumers.