FDA Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe announces stricter compliance norms for Maharashtra's dairy sector

The directions apply to milk collection centres, chilling centres, processors, packers, distributors, transporters, loose milk vendors, and manufacturers of milk and milk products.

In a major move to tighten food safety standards across Maharashtra, Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe on Friday announced a comprehensive compliance order for the state's dairy sector, making it mandatory for every stakeholder in the milk supply chain to follow stricter hygiene, testing, and traceability norms.

After issuing the directive, Mundhe said the order is aimed at ensuring that consumers receive safe, unadulterated, and quality milk while bringing greater accountability across the dairy industry.

The directions apply to milk collection centres, chilling centres, processors, packers, distributors, transporters, loose milk vendors, and manufacturers of milk and milk products.

The order, issued under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, lays down detailed responsibilities for food business operators, covering procurement, storage, transportation, processing, packaging, labelling and sale of milk and dairy products. It also mandates strict adherence to sanitation protocols, regular quality checks, maintenance of records, staff hygiene, pest control, and scientific waste disposal.

FDA mandates traceability, warns of strict action for violations

Mundhe said every operator in the dairy supply chain will now be required to maintain complete traceability of milk, ensure proper cold-chain management wherever applicable and comply with food safety standards prescribed under various FSSAI regulations. Non-compliance could invite regulatory action, including suspension or cancellation of licences and prosecution under the Food Safety and Standards Act.

Mundhe stressed that milk is one of the most widely consumed food products, particularly by children, senior citizens and patients, making its safety a public health priority. He said the FDA would intensify inspections across Maharashtra and take stringent action against violators.

The commissioner also appealed to consumers to remain vigilant and report suspected cases of milk adulteration or other food safety violations. Complaints can be lodged through the FDA Maharashtra toll-free helpline, the FSSAI helpline, the FoSCoS mobile application or by submitting written complaints to the concerned FDA office.

The comprehensive order comes as the FDA looks to strengthen enforcement across the dairy sector.