FSSAI Steps Up Surprise Audits At Dark Stores, D2C Brands Amid Several Hygiene Lapses

In the wake of multiple reports on hygiene lapses, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has reportedly ramped up surprise audits and spot checks on dark stores of major quick commerce players, particularly for packaged foods.

Besides, some direct-to-consumer (D2C) food brands have also received ‘surprise visits’ from FSSAI officials. 

As per an ET report, quick commerce companies are now more cautious about hygiene and selective about adding small-scale new-age brands to their platforms.

An FSSAI official told ET, “These audits are being done to ensure quality control at all dark stores.”

As per the report, a senior executive in the quick commerce sector revealed that after multiple violations were found at Blinkit warehouses near Hyderabad by Telangana’s Commissioner of Food Safety, inspections were carried out at other companies’ dark stores as well. 

In June the Telangana food safety department raided a Blinkit warehouse in Medchal Malkajgiri district, finding it disorganised and unhygienic. They seized INR 82,000 worth of non-compliant or expired food items and planned further action against the quick commerce major.

Another person told ET, “It is specifically more in food and FMCG (fast-moving consumer goods). I know at least three brands whose warehouses were checked too. While there were no serious violations, it has alarmed them.”

The development comes at a time when players in the quick commerce space are expanding their product catalogues to meet the rising demand for instant delivery services.

Last month Mukesh Ambani-led Reliance was planning a foray into the quick commerce segment to take on the likes of Blinkit, BigBasket, Swiggy Instamart and Zepto. 

Zomato-owned Blinkit launched a new category to deliver sports and fitness essentials from top brands like Adidas, Boldfit and boAt among others.

Zepto and Swiggy Instamart are also strengthening their quick commerce play by delivering packaged food and beverages.

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