Maharashtra cracks down on food fraud: 34 arrested for repackaging expired goods

Maharashtra's FDA has uncovered a significant food safety violation scheme involving the clandestine repackaging and sale of expired food products from warehouses across the state. According to FDA Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe, the operation targeted unsuspecting consumers through deceptive practices designed to obscure the expired status of goods.

Authorities have arrested 34 individuals in connection with the illegal repackaging racket. The enforcement action forms part of a broader regulatory campaign launched by the FDA to combat food adulteration and unsafe handling practices in the state.

Since April 1, the Maharashtra FDA has intensified its inspections and compliance operations, seizing 11,963 quintals of spices suspected of quality violations. The agency has also issued 557 improvement notices to food businesses found non-compliant with safety standards and suspended 84 licenses following violations.

The crackdown reflects growing concern over food safety in Maharashtra's supply chain. Officials emphasize that repackaging expired products not only violates food safety regulations but poses direct health risks to consumers. The FDA has urged the public to verify packaging dates and purchase from authorized retailers to avoid counterfeit or expired goods.