Zepto Promises Swift Action After FDA Suspends Dharavi Licence Over Food Safety Violations (image-X/ZeptoNow)

Bengaluru, Karnataka: Zepto said it is taking all necessary corrective measures to resume operations and strengthen its safety processes after the Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) suspended the food business licence of its Dharavi distribution centre over serious violations of food safety norms.

The statement comes after a surprise inspection by the FDA on Saturday revealed alarming hygiene failures at the facility operated by Kiranakart Technologies Pvt Ltd, Zepto’s parent company.

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“We are committed to rectifying the lapses identified and strengthening our processes to provide the best and safest quality of products to our consumers,” said the company in a statement on Sunday.

“We are taking all necessary corrective measures to resume operations in accordance with regulatory obligations and applicable laws as soon as possible. We have already initiated an internal review and are working closely with the concerned authorities to ensure full and swift compliance,” it added.

Conducted by food safety officer Ram Bodke under the supervision of Joint Commissioner Mangesh Mane and on the instructions of Minister of State for FDA Yogesh Kadam, the probe uncovered alleged fungal growth on food items, stagnant and clogged water near storage areas, poorly maintained cold storage, and expired products stored alongside fresh stock.

In response to the findings, the FDA issued an immediate suspension order under Section 32(3) of the Food Safety Act and Regulation 2.1.8(4) of the Licensing and Registration Rules. The order bars the facility from operating until it meets all compliance requirements and receives official clearance.

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“Public health cannot be compromised. We are committed to strict and transparent enforcement,” said FDA Commissioner Rajesh Narvekar.

Zepto confirmed it has initiated an internal review and is working closely with authorities to ensure full and swift compliance. The facility’s licence will remain suspended until a follow-up inspection clears it for reinstatement.