Zepto’s Dharavi Facility Shut Down Over Severe Food Safety Violations

June 2, 2025

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The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has suspended the food business license of Zepto’s warehouse in Dharavi, Mumbai, following a surprise inspection that uncovered multiple breaches of food safety norms.

The inspection revealed unhygienic conditions, including fungal growth on food items, storage near stagnant water, and expired products mixed with fresh stock, posing significant health risks to consumers.

Inspection Uncovers Alarming Hygiene Lapses

On May 31, FDA officials conducted an unannounced inspection of Zepto’s Dharavi facility, operated by Kiranakart Technologies Pvt. Ltd.

The inspection, prompted by a directive from Minister of State for FDA Yogesh Kadam, uncovered several critical violations.

Food items stored directly on wet, dirty floors
Fungal growth on consumables
Products stored near clogged, stagnant water
Expired goods mixed with fresh inventory
Cold storage units failing to maintain required temperatures.
These conditions were found to be in violation of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and the Licensing and Registration of Food Businesses Regulations, 2011. As a result, the FDA suspended the facility’s license under Section 32(3) of the Act, pending full compliance and clearance from the licensing authority.

Zepto Responds and Broader Implications

In response to the suspension, Zepto stated, “At Zepto, food safety and hygiene are non-negotiable. We have initiated an internal review and are actively cooperating with the authorities to ensure swift rectification. We are committed to resuming operations in full compliance with the law.”

The FDA’s action has prompted scrutiny of other Zepto facilities, with inspections expected to ensure compliance across the company’s operations.

This incident underscores the importance of stringent food safety practices in the quick-commerce sector, where rapid delivery must not compromise consumer health.

The suspension of Zepto’s Dharavi facility highlights critical lapses in food safety protocols within the quick-commerce industry. As the sector continues to grow, maintaining rigorous hygiene standards is essential to protect consumer health and uphold trust in rapid delivery services