On June 1, 2025, the Maharashtra FDA suspended Zepto's food business license in the Dharavi warehouse
This was following a formal examination that revealed concerning hygienic infractions.
FDA Minister Yogesh Kadam's tip-off, which raised earlier concerns about the facility's facilities, spurred the examination.
Inspectors discovered that expired food items were kept with new stock, which was against fundamental food safety regulations and could cause cross-contamination.
Unsettling mold and fungus growth were found on food products, suggesting long-term disregard for storage procedures.
There was evidence of unsanitary conditions at the warehouse, including wet floors, standing water, and inadequate sanitation near food items.
Due to a malfunction, the cold storage system was unable to keep perishable goods at the safe temperatures needed.
These circumstances demonstrated Zepto's noncompliance with regulatory requirements and pointed to significant breaches in hygiene procedures.
As such food can result in foodborne illnesses among unwary customers, such infractions represent a serious public health danger.
The public is more concerned about the security and dependability of quick-commerce platforms as a result of this incident, which also harms Zepto's brand image.
Numerous Zepto facilities are currently being investigated, and it is anticipated that this case will lead to stricter food safety laws throughout the e-grocery industry.
Additionally, it establishes a precedent for regulatory bodies to scrutinize dark markets and last-mile delivery arrangements in India more closely.
Regular surprise inspections and more stringent compliance procedures must be implemented at all warehouses to stop such lapses.
Going forward, consumer transparency should be given top priority, including improved product labeling and quick recall procedures.