The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has suspended the food business licences of six restaurants and eateries in Mumbai, including a high-end establishment in south Mumbai, following inspections that uncovered unhygienic kitchens, expired stock, and misbranded products, officials confirmed on Tuesday.
Raids Target Posh and Suburban Eateries
Among the establishments penalised was Flint & Waarsa, a restaurant located in the upscale Nariman Point area. The FDA inspected the premises on June 27, finding misbranded products. Officials collected five samples for laboratory analysis and seized stock valued at ₹11,350. Additionally, stock worth ₹16,201 that had exceeded its expiry date was disposed of on-site, according to the FDA statement.
The enforcement drive extended to Mumbai's suburbs, with raids conducted on Monday in Borivali, Santacruz, Andheri, Bandra, and Bhandup. In these locations, inspectors discovered cockroaches, rats, and unhygienic storage of raw food. The affected establishments included hotels, restaurants, and a bakery.
Documentation and Health Check-Up Failures
The FDA noted that the establishments lacked necessary documentation and that staff had not undergone mandatory health check-ups. These deficiencies contributed to the suspension of their food business licences. The FDA cited grave shortcomings in cleanliness, poor refrigeration, and the absence of a mechanism to address customer grievances as reasons for the suspensions.
Statewide Enforcement Campaign Results
As part of a special statewide enforcement drive conducted between June 26 and June 28, the FDA carried out 31 raids across Maharashtra. During these operations, prohibited food items, including pan masala and gutkha, worth ₹34.87 lakh were seized. Nineteen individuals were arrested in connection with the sale, distribution, and transportation of banned food products. One establishment was sealed, and three vehicles were confiscated.
The FDA has stated that it will continue strict enforcement to ensure the availability of safe, high-quality food products and will pursue legal action against violations that pose a risk to public health.
