IAS officer Tukaram Mundhe continues taking action against unsafe and poor-quality food products across Maharashtra. Meanwhile, the Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration inspected operations linked with well-known company Blinkit. The regulator took action after finding violations of prescribed rules. Consequently, FDA suspended the food licence of Blink Commerce Private Limited. Authorities cited unhygienic conditions, cockroach infestation, and serious food safety violations behind the decision.
The FDA’s Brihanmumbai division regularly inspects food establishments to ensure product safety and quality. As part of this drive, food safety officers inspected a Blink Commerce Private Limited facility on August 7, 2026. The establishment operates at Gala No. A-03, Plot Nos. 38, 39 and 40. It occupies the first floor of Sarvodaya Bhuvan, Ramchandra Lane, Malad West, Mumbai.
Inspectors found extremely unhygienic conditions inside the establishment. Moreover, they discovered a large cockroach infestation across the premises. Officials also found improper food storage and rusted racks. Several food products remained directly on the floor. Additionally, inadequate cleaning affected the cold storage area.
Inspectors also found expired packaged food products inside the facility. Some packages showed signs of tampering. Furthermore, the establishment failed to follow FIFO and FEFO systems.
Pest Control, Waste Management and Employee Records Raise Concerns
The inspection revealed several additional shortcomings involving storage and handling areas. Officials found ineffective measures for controlling insects and rodents. Furthermore, waste management practices showed serious deficiencies. Inspectors also noted inadequate cleanliness and maintenance across the premises.
The establishment lacked medical examination records for employees handling food. Authorities also found missing health-related documentation for those workers. In addition, staff lacked necessary personal hygiene and safety equipment. Some food products also remained stored in an improper and disorganised manner.
Inspectors discovered many cockroaches among stored vegetables and fruits. Therefore, officials identified a serious risk of food contamination. The cold room also contained expired, spoiled, and tampered packages.
Licence Suspended Until Further Orders as FDA Bars Food Operations
Considering these serious irregularities, authorities invoked provisions under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. Specifically, FDA acted under Section 32(3) of the legislation. The regulator also applied relevant provisions from the Food Safety and Standards licensing regulations, 2011.
Following those findings, FDA suspended Blink Commerce Private Limited’s food licence with immediate effect. The suspension will continue until further orders.
During this period, the establishment cannot sell any food product. Authorities have also prohibited distribution from the inspected facility. Additionally, the company cannot continue food business operations there while suspension remains effective.
FDA also issued a clear warning regarding further violations. If officials find food operations continuing during suspension, they will take strict legal action. The regulator said authorities would proceed against responsible individuals under applicable law.
