The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has suspended the licence of the well-known ice cream parlour, ‘Rustom’, in Mumbai due to significant breaches of food safety regulations. This decision comes after an inspection revealed alarming issues, including live rats and houseflies on the premises, as well as expired food items being stored improperly.

The FDA’s press release specified that the suspension took effect following the findings during the inspection at the Brabourne Stadium House, located on Veer Nariman Road in Churchgate, Mumbai. The violations detected were serious enough to warrant immediate action to protect public health.

Among the notable deficiencies noted during the inspection was the breakdown of essential cold chain operations, which are critical for maintaining the quality and safety of food products. Additionally, there was a failure to keep mandatory records that track food safety protocols, further compounding the violations observed.

Details of the Violations

The FDA cited the suspension under Section 32(3) of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, which allows for immediate action against food businesses failing to comply with health standards. The presence of live pests and expired products is particularly concerning, as it reflects a lack of adherence to hygiene practices that are vital for any food establishment.

Rustom, established in 1953 by K Rustom Irani, has long been recognised as a staple of Mumbai’s dessert culture, famed for its unique ice cream sandwiches. The parlour has served its loyal customer base for decades and has become a part of Mumbai’s culinary identity. However, these recent violations raise questions about the establishment’s commitment to food safety.

Alongside Rustom, another food business, Hotel Patilwada in Dhule, had its licence revoked for operating without a valid permit. This action illustrates the FDA’s broader initiative to enforce compliance among various food vendors in the state, as ongoing inspections are conducted to ensure adherence to safety regulations.

Further Actions Taken by the FDA

In addition to the suspension at Rustom, the FDA also took action against Hira Sweets Pvt. Ltd., located at Dr. Ambedkar Marg in Panchpaoli, Nagpur. An inspection revealed a dead rat on the premises while food production was actively taking place nearby. This incident represents a clear violation of regulations set out in Part II of Schedule 4 of the Food Safety and Standards (Licensing and Registration of Food Businesses) Regulations, 2011.

The multiple actions taken by the FDA indicate an intensified focus on food safety within Maharashtra. The agency remains vigilant in addressing instances that threaten public health as it continues to monitor food establishments closely throughout the state.

As a result of these inspections and subsequent actions, businesses are being urged to comply fully with the stipulated regulations to ensure food safety and protect consumer health. The FDA’s rigorous enforcement measures aim to restore public confidence in food safety standards across Maharashtra.

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