Maharashtra FDA Arrests 32, Seals 26 Establishments in Major Food Safety Crackdown

In a major enforcement drive against food safety violations and banned products, Maharashtra's Food and Drug Administration (FDA) arrested 32 persons and sealed 26 establishments during raids conducted across the state between May 30 and 31.

FDA Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe said officials inspected 40 establishments across Mumbai, Konkan, Pune, Nashik, Amravati and Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar divisions. Authorities seized prohibited items worth Rs 12.16 lakh , registered 24 FIRs , and confiscated three vehicles used in the illegal trade.

The crackdown primarily targeted the sale of gutka, scented supari and banned tobacco products , while also addressing broader food safety concerns. During a separate three-day statewide drive from May 29 to 31, the FDA examined more than 84,000 kg of stock worth Rs 97.19 lakh , taking action against adulterated food products and unsafe practices.

In Thane district, officials seized 3,453 kg of mangoes valued at Rs 11.12 lakh after discovering that some traders were allegedly using direct ethylene spraying to artificially ripen fruit. The practice is prohibited under food safety regulations, which permit only controlled ripening through approved ethylene gas chambers.

Mundhe said the FDA is expanding its enforcement capacity by adding personnel and strengthening laboratory infrastructure across the state. New complaint mechanisms, including a mobile application and toll-free helpline, are also being developed to improve public participation.

The extensive operation highlights the scale of regulatory enforcement required to protect consumers from unsafe food products, adulteration and illegal tobacco sales. As food supply chains become increasingly complex, authorities say sustained inspections, stronger testing facilities and greater public awareness remain essential to ensuring food safety and public health.