Zepto, the fast-growing quick-commerce platform, has had its food business license suspended at its Dharavi facility in Mumbai. The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) took strict action following an inspection that revealed multiple food safety violations.
According to the FDA, Kiranakart Technologies (Zepto) was found violating key provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and the Food Safety and Standards (Licensing and Registration of Food Businesses) Regulations, 2011. Inspectors observed fungal growth on food items and discovered that products were stored near clogged water, creating unhygienic and unsafe conditions.
The FDA inspection further noted poor maintenance of cold-storage temperatures, which did not comply with regulatory guidelines. Additionally, the facility had wet and dirty floors, and raw materials and food products were stored haphazardly. Expired food products were not separated from fresh stock, increasing the risk to consumer health.
The inspection was conducted based on information received from the Minister of State for FDA, Yogen Kadam. Following the findings, Anupamaa Balasaheb Patil, Assistant Commissioner (Food), ordered the immediate suspension of Zepto’s food business license under Section 32(3) of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and Regulation 2.1.8(4) of the Licensing and Registration Regulations, 2011.
Zepto has not yet issued an official response. The food business license will remain suspended until the company rectifies all safety and hygiene issues and complies with FDA standards.
