Maharashtra FDA Tightens Inspections on Blinkit, Zepto Dark Stores

The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has confirmed that it will continue regular inspections of dark stores operated by quick-commerce platforms Blinkit and Zepto. This move comes after both companies faced temporary store closures due to violations of food safety and hygiene norms last month.

“They (Blinkit, Zepto) did make all the changes… but we are making sure that regular inspections are being done,” said Yogesh Kadam, Maharashtra’s Minister of State for Food, Civil Supplies, and Consumer Protection.

Violations Prompted Shutdowns

In June, a Blinkit-affiliated store in Pune—operated by partner Energy Darkstore Services—was found to be functioning without a mandatory food safety licence. The inspection followed a consumer complaint, and the FDA immediately ordered the suspension of all food-related operations at the facility, located near Mitcon College in Balewadi.

Similarly, in the case of Zepto, a Dharavi-based facility was pulled up for non-compliance with food safety standards, though specific details of violations were not publicly disclosed.

Also Read: RBI Plans Overhaul of Regulatory Framework, Aims for Simpler Compliance

Hygiene Issues and Safety Concerns

Inspectors at the Blinkit store reported unhygienic conditions, including food particles scattered on the floor and workers handling items without proper headgear—a clear violation under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.

The joint commissioner (food) clearly stated that operations would not be allowed to resume until a valid licence was obtained and hygiene norms were strictly implemented.

Operations Resumed After Clearance

After corrective action, both Blinkit and Zepto were granted clearance to reopen their dark stores. The FDA has since issued letters to the companies emphasizing the importance of maintaining hygiene and regulatory standards at all outlets.

While Blinkit declined to comment on the matter, Zepto did not respond to media queries.

Government’s Ongoing Vigilance

Despite the corrective actions taken, the FDA maintains that frequent and unannounced inspections will continue across all dark stores operated by these companies. The goal is to ensure public health safety and prevent repeat violations.

Key Highlights:

• Blinkit and Zepto dark stores were previously shut down due to hygiene and licensing issues.

• FDA inspections revealed violations, including lack of food safety licence and poor sanitary conditions.

• Both companies resumed operations after receiving regulatory clearance.

• Ongoing inspections will continue to ensure strict compliance with food safety laws.

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