Maharashtra FDA Inspections Continue on Blinkit and Zepto Dark Stores for Hygiene Compliance

The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) will maintain ongoing inspections of Blinkit and Zepto dark stores to ensure adherence to hygiene and food safety norms following recent regulatory violations at their facilities in Pune and Mumbai.

Dark Stores Under Watch for Food Safety Violations

Maharashtra FDA's decision follows shutdowns of Blinkit and Zepto dark stores in June 2025 due to breaches in hygiene protocols and missing licences. A Blinkit-affiliated store near Mitcon College in Pune was found operating without the required food safety licence. The FDA mandated its immediate closure, citing poor hygiene and non-compliance under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.

Zepto’s Facility Shut for Multiple Hygiene Breaches

Zepto’s dark store in Dharavi, Mumbai, operated by Kiranakart Technologies Pvt Ltd, faced a licence suspension after inspectors discovered food with fungal growth, expired products freely mixed with fresh stock, poor water drainage and improper temperature maintenance in cold storage units. This prompted regulatory intervention.

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Operations Resumed but Monitoring Continues

Though Blinkit and Zepto resumed operations after obtaining clearances and implementing necessary changes, Maharashtra's Minister of State for Food and Consumer Protection, Yogesh Kadam, confirmed that routine site inspections will remain active to guarantee ongoing compliance. The companies were issued formal warnings requiring all outlets to maintain hygiene and standards consistently.

Industry Impact and Consumer Trust

These enforcement actions by the FDA signal a rising emphasis on public health and consumer safety in the quick commerce space. Recurring inspections are now a critical tool in regulating the expanding network of dark stores operated by instant delivery platforms. Maintaining hygiene is essential to restoring and retaining consumer confidence.

Conclusion

Maharashtra FDA’s determined approach underlines the importance of regulatory oversight in the growing quick commerce sector. Following past violations, Blinkit and Zepto now face routine scrutiny to ensure hygiene compliance and food safety standards across all operational facilities.

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