MUMBAI, September 11, 2026 | Economy India: The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has suspended the licences of 199 hotels, clubs and roadside eateries following inspections carried out across the state over the past three months, officials said on Friday.
The enforcement action followed inspections that uncovered serious food-safety and hygiene violations, including cockroach-infested kitchens, uncovered raw meat, filthy utensils and inadequate sanitation practices.
The FDA also issued 948 improvement notices to food establishments for critical violations involving cold-chain management, hygiene and sanitation, officials said.
Pune Records Highest Number of Licence Suspensions
The Pune division emerged as the worst offender in terms of licence suspensions during the enforcement drive.
According to Maharashtra FDA data, Pune recorded 4,261 inspections and 168 licence suspensions. Konkan followed with 3,142 inspections and 108 suspensions, while Greater Mumbai reported 1,451 inspections and 121 suspensions.
The figures underline the scale of food-safety enforcement across Maharashtra, with authorities focusing on restaurants, hotels, clubs and dhabas where improper food handling and poor hygiene can pose significant health risks.
FDA Steps Up Food Safety Checks
The inspections were aimed at checking compliance with food-safety requirements, particularly proper storage of perishable food, maintenance of cold chains, cleanliness of kitchens and utensils, and safe handling of raw ingredients.
Officials said establishments found committing serious violations faced regulatory action, including suspension of their licences.
The 948 improvement notices issued during the period indicate that a significant number of establishments were also directed to rectify deficiencies and bring their operations in line with food-safety standards.
Focus on Hygiene and Cold-Chain Compliance
Maintaining the cold chain is particularly important for meat, dairy products and other perishable food items, as inadequate temperature control can increase the risk of food contamination.
The FDA’s enforcement drive is expected to put greater pressure on eateries to maintain hygienic kitchens, ensure proper food storage and prevent cross-contamination.
The Maharashtra FDA has continued inspections as part of efforts to strengthen compliance among food businesses and protect consumers from unsafe food practices.
(Economy India)
