Photo Credit: Zepto/X
Mumbai-based quick commerce giant Zepto has landed in regulatory hot water after the Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) suspended the food business license of its Dharavi warehouse, citing gross violations of food safety and hygiene standards.
Following a surprise inspection by FDA officials, serious concerns were raised over food handling, storage, and hygiene conditions at the Zepto warehouse operated by Kiranakart Technologies, Zepto’s parent company. Officials reported discovering fungus-covered food packets, expired items stored alongside fresh stock, and products kept on wet and unhygienic floors near areas of stagnant water.
The investigation further revealed that cold storage facilities were not functioning at prescribed temperatures, and food inventory was poorly segregated and organized. These are violations under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and the Food Safety and Standards (Licensing and Registration of Food Businesses) Regulations, 2011.
Acting on a directive from Minister of State for FDA, Yogesh Kadam, Assistant Commissioner Anupamaa Patil exercised powers under Section 32(3) of the Act to suspend Zepto’s license with immediate effect. The facility has been ordered to cease operations until it demonstrates full compliance with regulatory norms.
In response, Zepto acknowledged the findings and said it has launched an internal review. A spokesperson for the company stated, “We are working closely with authorities to ensure full and swift compliance. Our commitment to food safety and customer trust remains a top priority.”
This development is a major blow to Zepto’s reputation as the company rides the momentum of India’s booming quick-commerce sector, promising 10-minute grocery and food delivery. The suspension not only highlights gaps in back-end quality checks but also raises questions about consumer safety in the high-speed delivery model.
Zepto must now rectify the lapses and undergo a fresh inspection before its license can be reinstated. Until then, the spotlight remains firmly on the company’s ability to meet regulatory standards while scaling at speed.
As the competition tightens in India’s instant delivery market, adherence to food safety protocols may well become the new benchmark for trust and longevity.
