Blinkit’s license suspended in Akola; major action taken against two popular restaurants over unhygienic food practices
The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has taken strict action against a Blinkit storage warehouse in Akola. A re-inspection revealed that several deficiencies highlighted in a previously issued improvement notice had still not been rectified.
Additionally, the FDA discovered flaws regarding the arrangement of goods and storage racks, prompting the suspension of the company’s state-level food license.
This decision follows a hearing held on August 31. The FDA maintains that if a business operator fails to comply with regulations despite receiving instructions to rectify deficiencies, legal action can be initiated against them.
Action against two food outlets as well
The FDA has also taken action against two popular food outlets in Mumbai: Delhi Sweet and Bhelpuri House in Malad and Gulzar Mohammadi Hotel in Kurla West. According to officials, neither establishment was adhering to hygiene and food safety norms.
Food stored near a dirty drain
During the inspection of Delhi Sweet and Bhelpuri House in Malad, officials uncovered several serious violations. Food items were found stored near a dirty drain. Furthermore, unfiltered tap water was being used for cooking and drinking, and there were no records of mandatory water quality tests. The inspection also revealed that while the shop’s license permitted only the sale of ready-made food, items such as lassi, sweets, and paneer were being prepared and packaged on the premises.
Unlabeled paneer and lassi
During the inspection, officials seized paneer and lassi that lacked mandatory labeling and expiry date information. Regulations regarding food-handling staff were also not being followed. Out of a total of 36 food handlers, 26 did not possess the mandatory medical fitness certificates. Some employees were found handling food despite having open burn wounds on their hands. Additionally, the fingernails of some staff members were neither clean nor properly trimmed.
Severe Unhygienic Conditions Found at a Kurla Hotel
The FDA has also taken strict action against the Gulzar Mohammadi Hotel in Kurla West. Officials discovered issues such as a cockroach infestation, contaminated food items, poor drainage, and general filth. Furthermore, the required water quality test reports were missing. In light of these violations, the hotel’s registration certificate has been suspended. The preparation, storage, sale, or distribution of food at the premises has been prohibited until further orders.
