Pune, August 19: The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has conducted a significant operation in Pune concerning food quality and safety. On August 18, FDA teams raided four establishments. During the inspections, banned food items were discovered at all locations. Consequently, four FIRs were filed, leading to the arrest of four individuals.
According to FDA officials, a total of ₹14,598 worth of banned food items was seized during the operation. Additionally, three establishments were sealed, and a vehicle used in the violations was confiscated, valued at approximately ₹15,000.
This action was part of the ‘Safe Food, Safe Maharashtra’ special campaign led by Food Safety Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe. The FDA aims to ensure food quality, safety, and proper labeling. Officials are continuously inspecting markets, warehouses, factories, and hotels/restaurants.
The FDA also investigated Messrs Indo Allied Protein Foods Private Limited located in Mahalunge on Chakan Road, Khed Tehsil. During the inspection, some food items were found to be of inferior quality and improperly labeled. The stock was immediately seized, including khichdi masala (approximately 5,098 kg, valued at around ₹5.09 lakh) and defatted toasted soy grits (about 5,598 kg, valued at approximately ₹4.47 lakh).
Samples of these food items have been sent to an authorized laboratory for testing. Further legal action will be taken under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, following the lab report.
On August 18, special actions were also taken regarding milk, dairy products, spices, and jaggery. Two establishments in Pune were raided, resulting in the seizure of 14,546 kg of goods, with a total value of approximately ₹13.87 lakh.
FDA officials stated that this campaign aims to prevent the supply of adulterated and low-quality food items, especially during the festive season.
A total of nine establishments, including hotels, restaurants, and dhabas, were inspected in Pune. Six of these received improvement notices due to cleanliness, labeling, and licensing issues. Officials have instructed the respective operators to rectify the deficiencies within a specified timeframe.
The FDA has urged all food businesses to strictly adhere to food safety standards, quality, and labeling regulations.
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