In a major inspection drive across the state, the FDA has suspended the licences of eight food establishments in Mumbai after finding filthy kitchens, rusted utensils, and old bread being reused. Along with action against local eateries, the department also seized over 33 tonnes of substandard and wrongly labelled rajma (kidney beans) worth Rs 50 lakh from a godown in Nerul, Navi Mumbai.

Severe violations

FDA officials said the inspections carried out on October 21 and 22 revealed severe violations of safety and hygiene rules under Schedule 4 of the Food Safety and Standards Regulations. Inspectors found open and dirty drains near food preparation areas and uncleaned surfaces, along with rusted racks and cooking vessels. At bakery units, officials found returned and stale bread being mixed into fresh dough. The kitchens also failed to maintain compulsory fridge and chiller temperature logs, while staff were working without required medical fitness certificates. It was also found that unauthorised artificial food colours were being used in sweets.