Maharashtra Food Safety Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe has launched an intensive campaign against food safety violations across Mumbai, targeting restaurants, hotels, food chains, clubs and street-food businesses.
Since taking charge as the state’s food safety chief in May, Mundhe has led more than 3,000 inspections and raids, according to Reuters. Several establishments have faced action over poor hygiene, expired food, pest infestations and other violations.
Big Brands Also Under Scanner
The crackdown has not been limited to small eateries. Officials have also inspected major food chains, including Domino’s, Pizza Hut and McDonald’s, along with well-known restaurants and local establishments.
In recent weeks, food permits of several outlets were suspended after inspectors found violations. The action has attracted considerable attention on social media, where photographs and videos from raids have gone viral.
‘You Are Dealing With People’s Lives’
Mundhe has defended his strict approach, saying food businesses that fail to comply with safety regulations should expect regulatory action.
His campaign has resonated with many consumers who have long complained about hygiene standards at restaurants, roadside stalls and other food outlets.
Public Support Grows
The commissioner’s inspections have generated widespread public interest. Many consumers have praised the administration for taking action against businesses accused of maintaining poor hygiene or selling unsafe food.
The campaign has also encouraged some food businesses to improve their cleaning, storage and pest-control practices before inspectors arrive.
Businesses Raise Concerns
Mundhe’s aggressive enforcement style has also attracted criticism from sections of the food industry. Some businesses have questioned whether certain actions were excessive, while legal scrutiny has followed some enforcement decisions.
Despite the criticism, Mundhe has indicated that regulatory authorities must act firmly when public health is at risk.
A Larger Food Safety Problem
The Mumbai crackdown comes amid broader concerns over food safety in India. Government data cited by Reuters shows that food inspectors have tested more than 100,000 samples annually since 2020, with roughly one-fifth found to be unsafe, substandard or improperly labelled. Nearly 8,000 food business licences have reportedly been cancelled over the past three years.
