Maharashtra FDA Cracks Down on Food Adulteration

Maharashtra's Food and Drug Administration intensifies efforts against food adulteration with over 12,000 inspections, issuing notices, suspending licenses, and imposing fines. With improved manpower and infrastructure, the state aims to strengthen food safety through stricter penalties and enhanced monitoring.

The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration is ramping up its efforts to combat food adulteration across the state. Minister Narhari Zirwal announced that the department conducted 12,693 inspections, issuing 5,776 notices for improvement.

In a drive to enforce food safety norms, the FDA suspended 167 licenses and cancelled one registration. Additionally, 840 cases were settled through compounding, resulting in Rs 75.34 lakh in fines. To further boost its enforcement capabilities, the state recruited 197 personnel and is upgrading testing infrastructure.

Zirwal emphasized the importance of stricter provisions in the Food Safety and Standards Act to effectively tackle food adulteration. Proposed amendments await Union government approval, reinforcing the state's commitment to stringent food safety regulations.

(With inputs from agencies.)