The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has suspended the FSSAI licences of five notable clubs in Mumbai following inspections that uncovered significant breaches of food safety and hygiene standards. The action was taken after an inspection drive on July 27, which involved reviewing seven food establishments, including clubs, canteens, and restaurants in the Greater Mumbai area.

Additionally, the Goregaon Sports Club in Malad West has been ordered to halt its food business operations due to operating without a valid licence or registration. The FDA’s strict measures reflect ongoing efforts to ensure compliance with food safety regulations.

The specific clubs affected by licence suspension include The Cricket Club of India Ltd, RK Juhu Gymkhana, The Aparna Juhu Gymkhana, MIG Cricket Club in Bandra East, and The Willingdon Sports Club. Each of these establishments has been identified as failing to meet essential hygiene requirements.

Violations of Safety and Hygiene Protocols

The FDA’s inspections revealed widespread violations of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. At The Cricket Club of India Ltd, authorities discovered live cockroach and fly infestations in areas where food was handled, alongside poor waste disposal methods. Multiple cases of water dripping onto food stored in cold storage units were also reported, along with clogged drains and the presence of spoiled vegetables and expired foods.

Additional concerns included inadequate food labelling, non-compliance with FIFO (First In, First Out) and FEFO (First Expired, First Out) systems, and insufficient segregation between vegetarian and non-vegetarian food preparation areas, leading to potential cross-contamination.

At RK Juhu Gymkhana, findings included deteriorating walls and ceilings, insufficient personal hygiene facilities for food handlers, and poor conditions related to drainage. Inspectors noted that food handlers were not adhering to basic hygiene protocols, as they did not wear gloves, caps, or aprons during food preparation.

Further Sanitation Issues Highlighted

The Aparna Juhu Gymkhana was found to possess rusted cooking equipment, points of insect intrusion, and inadequate sanitation facilities. The FDA also identified a lack of proper segregation protocols for raw, cooked, vegetarian, and non-vegetarian food items, contributing to potential health risks.

At MIG Cricket Club, inspectors observed that an unauthorised third-party organisation, Ms Nebula Catering Services, was operating on the premises without a valid FSSAI licence. Issues reported included pest infestations, improper food storage practices, and a lack of records for food and water testing. Additionally, the absence of trained technical staff raised further concerns regarding food safety management.

The Willingdon Sports Club was similarly noted for deficiencies in food safety standards, with issues such as poor maintenance of drainage systems, unclean floors, deteriorated ceilings, inadequate temperature monitoring for food items, outdated food testing records, and a lack of proper cleaning schedules. These combined failures highlight a clear need for enhanced compliance with food safety regulations.

Impact on Public Health and Safety

The FDA’s enforcement actions aim to protect public health by preventing unsafe food practices and ensuring that food businesses adhere to stringent hygiene and safety standards. Inspections are a proactive approach to safeguarding consumers from the health risks associated with substandard food handling practices.

The measures taken against these establishments serve as a warning to others in the food service sector regarding the importance of maintaining proper hygiene and compliance with regulations. The FDA continues to monitor food establishments rigorously to ensure the health and safety of the public in Mumbai.

By reinforcing these standards, the FDA emphasises its commitment to upholding food safety laws designed to protect consumers from foodborne illnesses and unsafe food practices in the region.

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