The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in Maharashtra’s Thane region has seized food items and raw materials valued at Rs 20.48 lakh during a surprise inspection. The operation took place on September 9, 2026, specifically targeting establishments involved in the production and sale of various snack items, including farsan and chivda. A total of eleven businesses were identified and scrutinised under the Food Safety and Standards Act of 2006, following confidential tips about unsafe manufacturing practices.

Findings from the Inspection

The inspection revealed significant breaches of food safety regulations. Many establishments lacked valid food licences as mandated by the relevant legislation. Upon examining the production sites, officials noted that the flooring was excessively dirty and sticky, with remnants of oil and food particles. Additionally, the roofs and walls were constructed from temporary materials, leading to undesirable conditions. The facilities lacked appropriate drainage systems, which resulted in the accumulation of wastewater outside, contributing to unpleasant odours.

Evidence of pest infestations was also alarming, with cockroaches and rats discovered in various premises. Furthermore, stray animals like cows, dogs, and cats were frequently observed near these food production areas, raising serious concerns over hygiene. In addition, labelling on many packaged products did not meet regulatory standards, and workers were seen preparing food without appropriate protective gear.

The FDA seized a broad array of items during the inspection. This included ready-to-eat snacks such as potato wafers, chivda, and banana chips, alongside raw materials like flour and palmolein oil. Overall, the seized inventory amounted to 28,955 kg and 56 litres in total, with a market value closely approximating Rs 20,48,801.50.

Details of Affected Establishments

The inspection led to action being taken against the following individuals and their respective businesses: Rakesh Lalji Gupta, Rammilan Sudarshan Sahani, Bina Radheshyam Gupta, Shaidhav Rajbhar Tiwari, Virendra Kumar Yadav, Anil Kumar Motilal Gupta, Shivprasad Jaggu Yadav, Dharmaraj Jaishankar Chauhan, Sandeep Dinesh Tiwari, Hariprakash Baliram Gupta, and Anish Ahmed. These establishments were producing a range of food items that were deemed unsatisfactory for consumer health.

In light of the upcoming festive season, the FDA has issued a directive stating that event organisers planning large-scale food distributions must notify the relevant FDA officer at least seven days prior to their event. This measure aims to enhance supervision over food establishments during this period. Additionally, operating licences for ten established food businesses, including several hotels and restaurants, have been suspended across various regions, including Mumbai and Pune.

The FDA’s operation was prompted by specific intelligence regarding unsatisfactory food safety practices in the Shil-Diva Road sector of the region. Their findings raised concerns about food quality and manufacturing conditions that could potentially jeopardise public health.

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