The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) of Maharashtra conducted a major three-day crackdown across the state, raiding approximately 100 retail and manufacturing units. The operation led to the seizure of banned items such as gutka, adulterated milk, and ghee valued at over Rs 40 lakh. Additionally, food items were found being prepared in unhygienic conditions.
Arrests and FIRs
According to an FDA press release, 25 First Information Reports (FIRs) have been registered, and 33 individuals have been arrested for selling gutka. Goods worth Rs 21 lakh were seized during these actions. The raids were conducted in Mumbai, Konkan, Pune, Nashik, Amravati, Nagpur, and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar divisions on May 25, 26, and 27.
Statement from FDA Commissioner
State FDA commissioner Tukaram Mundhe stated, “Strict criminal action will be taken against those who play with health.” Officials reported that in Dharavi, a manufacturing facility producing noodles was found violating labelling rules. In Jalgaon, a person was caught preparing artificial milk by mixing edible oil with cow’s milk. In Pune, mangoes were being grown using chemicals.
Focus on Gutka
The raids particularly targeted gutka. FDA inspectors found that 34 out of 53 inspected establishments were selling gutka, pan masala, and similar prohibited food items. Of these, 19 establishments were located in Mumbai. Another 23 establishments were inspected, leading to the seizure of over 60 items, including packaged drinking water, milk, and noodles, worth Rs 28 lakh.
Raids in Thane District
In Thane district, six people were arrested for selling banned food products like gutka and scented tobacco. Raids were carried out at 13 establishments allegedly selling adulterated ghee, toddy, noodles, and edible oil, collectively worth over Rs 7.3 lakh. An official noted, “Some products like toddy had alleged intoxicants added, while a few local farsan and sherbet units were manufacturing products in unhygienic conditions. The majority of the raided units stocked products that flouted packaging and labelling norms, among other violations. Samples have been sent to the labs, following which action will be taken.”
Citizens are urged to report complaints regarding food quality to FDA’s toll-free number 1800-222-2365.
