30 June,2026 01:48 PM IST | Mumbai | mid-day online correspondent
Representational Image
The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has suspended the food business licences of six restaurants and eateries across Mumbai after inspections uncovered unhygienic kitchens, expired food items, pest infestations and regulatory violations.
Among the establishments facing action is Flint & Waarsa, a restaurant in the Nariman Point area of south Mumbai. The action was part of a statewide enforcement drive aimed at ensuring food safety and compliance with food regulations.
FDA officials inspected Flint & Waarsa on June 27 and found several alleged violations during the inspection.
According to an official statement, inspectors detected "misbranded" food products and collected five samples for laboratory testing. Food items worth Rs 11,350 were seized for further examination.
The inspection team also found food stock worth Rs 16,201 that had exceeded its expiry date. The expired products were destroyed at the premises in accordance with food safety procedures.
On Monday, FDA teams carried out inspections at hotels, restaurants and a bakery located in Borivali, Santacruz, Andheri, Bandra and Bhandup.
During the inspections, officials reported finding cockroaches and rats in food preparation and storage areas. They also noted unhygienic conditions, including improper storage of raw food materials.
The FDA said several establishments were unable to produce mandatory regulatory documents during the inspections. In addition, staff members had not undergone the compulsory medical examinations required for food handlers under food safety regulations.
The department said the food business licences of all six establishments were suspended after inspectors documented serious shortcomings.
According to the FDA, the violations included poor standards of cleanliness, inadequate refrigeration facilities and the absence of an effective mechanism for addressing customer complaints.
Officials said these deficiencies posed potential risks to food safety and public health, prompting immediate regulatory action against the establishments.
The inspections in Mumbai formed part of a larger enforcement campaign conducted across Maharashtra between June 26 and June 28.
During the three-day operation, FDA teams carried out 31 raids across the state. Officials seized prohibited food products, including pan masala and gutkha, valued at Rs 34.87 lakh.
The department also arrested 19 people for their alleged involvement in the sale, distribution and transportation of banned food products. In addition, one establishment was sealed and three vehicles were seized during the operation.
The Food and Drug Administration said it will continue conducting surprise inspections and enforcement drives to ensure compliance with food safety standards across Maharashtra.
The department reiterated that strict legal action would be taken against food businesses found violating regulations or compromising public health. Officials said the ongoing inspections are intended to improve hygiene standards, ensure the availability of safe and quality food products, and strengthen consumer confidence in food establishments across the state.
(With inputs from PTI)
