Pune, August 14: The neglect of food safety regulations is now leading to serious consequences. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has suspended the licenses of 16 hotels, restaurants, e-commerce, and dairy establishments across Maharashtra as part of its “Safe Food, Safe Drug, Safe Maharashtra” campaign. Notable names from Pune, Lonavala, Satara, Sangli, and Kolhapur are included in this list.
The most stringent action by the FDA was taken against Hotel Sayaji, operated by Messrs Fortune Enterprises in Lonavala. During an inspection on August 12, expired food items were discovered at the hotel. Additionally, there were significant violations of Schedule IV regulations related to food safety. As a result, the FDA suspended the hotel’s license number 11523083000081. Officials stated that serving stale and expired goods directly jeopardizes customer health. This action has caused panic among hotel operators.
The FDA’s inspections took place from August 11 to 14, during which nine establishments in the hotel and restaurant sector faced penalties. Licenses were suspended for Hotel Chul Mutton in Lohgaon, Messrs Simply South in Bhosari, Hotel Pawan in Kolhapur, and Messrs Rajesh Chinese in Sangli. Outlets like Burger King in Pune Camp, Domino’s Pizza in Karad, and Pizza Hut were also affected. Messrs JBM Hospitality Canteen in Wanwadi, HDFC Bank, and Golden East were found operating without licenses and were ordered to cease operations immediately.
This time, the FDA has not only targeted hotels and restaurants but has also clamped down on online food delivery companies. Three e-commerce establishments had their licenses suspended due to negligence in the sale and storage of food items. The affected companies include Messrs Jepto Limited in Lohgaon, Messrs Swinista Enterprises Private Limited in Warje-Jakat Naka and Karvenagar, and Messrs Blink Commerce Private Limited in Narhe and Bhavani Peth. The FDA emphasized that online platforms are not exempt from food safety laws. Cleanliness in storage and checking expiration dates are mandatory.
The FDA is also strict about the quality of milk and dairy products. Following inspections revealing deficiencies, three dairy establishments had their licenses suspended. These include Messrs Om Sai Ram Milk and Milk Products in Khed Taluka, Messrs Dharmanath Milk Cooling Center in Ambegaon Taluka, and Messrs R.K. Milk in Kanchanwadi, Andhori in Satara district.
Under the direction of Food Safety Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe, this special initiative was launched. The FDA clarified that immediate action will be taken against those who fail to adhere to hygiene standards set by the Food Safety and Standards Act. The department has also appealed to the public to report any complaints regarding food quality or cleanliness by calling the toll-free number 1800222365. Officials indicated that inspections will intensify in the coming days.
In addition to this initiative, the FDA has made another significant decision. Starting Monday, a campaign will be launched against vendors selling high-fat, high-sugar, and high-salt (HFSS) foods near school premises. According to regulations, the sale of junk food is prohibited within a 50-meter radius of schools.
The FDA has warned food vendors that strict action will be taken if they are caught selling chips, cold drinks, chocolates, and other HFSS items within this area. The administration aims to keep children away from easily accessible high-fat, salt, and sugar foods. Parents are also urged to encourage their children to opt for nutritious meals.
Leave a Comment