A storm has hit the fast-paced world of quick commerce, as Zepto’s food operations in Mumbai face a major blow. The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has suspended the food license of Kiranakart Technologies, the company behind Zepto, after uncovering alarming hygiene violations at their kitchen in Dharavi.
The FDA’s inspection exposed deeply troubling conditions. Fungal infestations were seen on stored food items, while products were reportedly placed beside stagnant water. The scene painted a picture of severe neglect, with spoiled and fresh items kept together and expired goods not separated from usable stock.
Even more concerning, the facility failed to uphold mandatory cold-storage temperatures. Floors were soaked and unclean, while raw materials were arranged without any sense of order or sanitation. Such conditions were flagged as dangerous for public health and directly contravened the guidelines laid out under the Food Safety and Standards Act of 2006 and the Food Safety and Standards (Licensing and Registration of Food Businesses) Regulations, 2011.
Minister of State for FDA, Yogen Kadam, confirmed that the inspection at the Dharavi premises was led by Assistant Commissioner (Food) Anupamaa Balasaheb Patil. Following the site visit, immediate suspension of Zepto’s license was enforced under Section 32(3) of the Act and Regulation 2.1.8(4) of the licensing regulations.
“The food safety violations posed a serious risk to consumers,” said an official involved in the inspection.
As of now, Zepto has not issued any public statement regarding the suspension. The Zepto license will remain inoperative until all shortcomings are fully rectified and the premises are brought back in line with compliance standards.
This development casts a spotlight on the critical importance of maintaining food safety in the booming quick commerce space. While speed and convenience are valued by modern consumers, they must never come at the cost of public health.
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