Maharashtra food authority seizes ₹63.45 crore stock in festive season drive

The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has seized food stock valued at ₹63.45 crore during an intensive inspection campaign timed with the festive season. The crackdown reflects heightened regulatory vigilance as consumer demand for food products surges during celebrations across the state.

According to official records, FDA teams inspected 9,667 food establishments across Maharashtra as part of the enforcement operation. The scale of the inspection drive underscores the authority's commitment to monitoring compliance with food safety regulations during peak consumption periods when the risk of substandard or adulterated products entering the market typically increases.

The regulatory action has resulted in significant compliance measures beyond the seizures. Officials issued 4,603 improvement notices to food businesses found operating below prescribed standards. Additionally, the FDA initiated proceedings to cancel 25 licences and registrations of establishments that demonstrated serious violations of food safety norms.

The seasonal enforcement drive aims to protect consumer interests during festival periods when food consumption patterns shift significantly. Authorities have indicated that such operations will continue to ensure food safety across retail, manufacturing, and distribution networks in Maharashtra.