FDA Suspends Zepto’s Food Business License in Mumbai' Dharavi area over Serious Safety Violations

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Maharashtra suspended the food business license of Kiranakart Technologies Pvt. Ltd., which operates the quick-commerce platform Zepto, following a surprise inspection at its Dharavi facility that uncovered multiple violations of food safety regulations.

The action was taken based on information received from the Minister of State for FDA, Shri Yogesh Kadam, and under the supervision of Joint Commissioner (Food), Shri Mangesh Mane. The inspection was carried out by Food Safety Officer Shri Ram Bodke.

According to officials, the inspection revealed alarming non-compliance with the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 and the Food Safety and Standards (Licensing and Registration of Food Businesses) Regulations, 2011.

Key violations noted during the inspection included, Presence of fungal growth on certain food items, Storage of food near stagnant and clogged water, Failure to maintain cold storage temperatures, Unsanitary and wet floors, with food items stored directly on the ground, Expired products found mixed with non-expired stock.

In light of these findings, Assistant Commissioner (Food), Smt. Anupamaa Balasaheb Patil, ordered the immediate suspension of Zepto’s food license under Section 32(3) of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 and Regulation 2.1.8(4) of the 2011 Licensing and Registration norms.

The suspension will remain in force until the facility fully complies with regulatory standards and secures clearance from the licensi​