The Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) has intensified its crackdown on food business operators across Nashik district to ensure the availability of safe, unadulterated, and quality food products for consumers.
Details of the Drive
Between May 28 and June 4, FDA officials conducted extensive inspections at multiple establishments, seizing food articles and prohibited products collectively valued at over Rs 15 lakh. Senior FDA officials stated that the department is continuously gathering confidential information about establishments suspected of selling substandard food items and taking stringent action against violators.
Acting on a specific tip-off regarding unhygienic manufacturing conditions at an ice cream and frozen dessert unit in Madasangvi, officials raided the facility and confiscated stock worth Rs 8,000. On the same day, a chikki manufacturing unit in Niphad was inspected, leading to the seizure of peanut chikki stock valued at Rs 15,200. Additionally, soybean oil being sold loose at a shop in Chandwad was seized for violating food safety norms.
Inspections Across the District
Similar enforcement operations were carried out in Igatpuri, Sinnar, Khode Nagar, Panchavati (Nashik city), Deola, Peth, Malegaon, and Girnare. During the seven-day drive, officials collected samples of khoya (mawa), farsan, caffeinated beverages, milk, and loose edible oil for laboratory analysis. Large quantities of state-banned products, including gutka and scented tobacco, were also seized from individuals and transporters in Igatpuri, Deola, Panchavati, and Mumbai Naka.
An FDA official emphasized, “The department is continuously gathering confidential information regarding the sale of substandard and adulterated food products. Strict action is being taken against violators to safeguard public health.”
Directives and Public Appeal
The drive is conducted under the directives of Maharashtra FDA Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe and the guidance of Joint Commissioner (Food) Shrikant Karkale. Officials have appealed to citizens to immediately report instances of food adulteration or related violations through the FDA’s toll-free helpline: 1800-222-365.
