Zepto and Blinkit face Maharashtra FDA inspection over hygiene and food safety compliance
Imagine ordering groceries in under 10 minutes, only to later find out that the dark stores where they are stored might not meet proper hygiene standards. This is exactly the concern that has put two of India’s leading quick-commerce players, Zepto and Blinkit, under the close watch of the Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
Last month, several dark stores operated by these companies were shut down due to alleged violations of food safety, hygiene, and compliance norms. Although operations have resumed after the required corrections, the FDA has confirmed that inspections will continue regularly.
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Why are Zepto and Blinkit under scrutiny?
According to a report, the FDA initiated these actions to ensure that both companies are following strict hygiene standards and complying with the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
- In June, a Blinkit-affiliated dark store in Pune (near Mitcon College in Balewadi and operated by Energy Darkstore Services) was discovered operating without a mandatory food safety licence.
- Inspectors immediately directed the operator to halt all food-related operations, warning of legal action if the order was not followed.
The facility could only reopen after obtaining the required licence and implementing corrective measures.
Unhygienic conditions at Zepto’s Dharavi facility
FDA inspectors reported alarming findings at a Zepto dark store in Dharavi:
- Food articles with fungal growth
- Products stored near stagnant water
- Expired items not clearly segregated
- Failure to maintain proper cold storage temperatures
Because of these lapses, the FDA suspended Zepto’s food business licence, stating that operations could resume only after all issues were rectified.
What the FDA says
Yogesh Kadam, Maharashtra’s Minister of State for Food, Civil Supplies, and Consumer Protection
“They (Blinkit, Zepto) did make all the changes. We issued a letter directing all their outlets to maintain hygiene and proper standards. Regardless, we are making sure that regular inspections are being done.”
Inspectors have also reported seeing food particles on the floor and staff handling products without proper headgear in certain facilities.
Why it matters for quick-commerce companies
Quick-commerce platforms like Zepto and Blinkit depend heavily on dark stores to deliver essentials within minutes. However, the latest incidents highlight how operational pressure must not come at the cost of food safety.
- Dark stores are now under continuous monitoring by the Maharashtra FDA.
- Companies must demonstrate full compliance with all food safety regulations to continue operations.
The FDA’s ongoing vigilance aims to protect consumer health and ensure that such lapses do not happen again.
The action against Zepto and Blinkit sends a strong message to all quick-commerce companies in India. While fast deliveries are appreciated, food safety and hygiene standards cannot be compromised. The Maharashtra FDA has made it clear that it will continue routine inspections of these dark stores to safeguard consumers.
