Maharashtra FDA seizes food products worth Rs 20.48 lakh in Thane raids

The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) conducted raids on 11 food manufacturing units in the Shil-Diva area of Thane, seizing raw materials and finished products valued at approximately Rs 20.48 lakh. The operation, part of the ‘Safe Food, Safe Medicine, Safe Maharashtra’ campaign, resulted in the seizure of over 28,955 kg of food items, including potato wafers, banana chips, and various snacks, along with 56 litres of oil.

Inspectors reported severe hygiene violations at the facilities, including pest infestations of rats and cockroaches, improper drainage leading to wastewater accumulation, and the presence of stray animals near production areas. Many establishments were found to be operating without valid licenses, using temporary building materials for walls and roofs, and lacking proper protective gear for workers.

In addition to the seizures in Thane, the FDA suspended licenses for several prominent eateries and suppliers in Mumbai, Pune, Konkan, and Sambhajinagar due to safety violations. Commissioner Tukaram Munde stated that the government maintains a zero-tolerance policy regarding food quality and will continue strict legal action against those selling adulterated or expired food.