Food Safety Lapses: Zepto, Blinkit Warehouses Sealed or Licensed Suspended

Authorities in India have taken action against quick-commerce companies for significant food safety and hygiene breaches. In Bengaluru, Karnataka, a warehouse belonging to the quick-commerce firm Zepto was sealed by food safety officials. The decision followed inspections that revealed unhygienic food handling and storage practices, improper labelling, and misbranding.

Concurrently, in Mumbai, Maharashtra, the license for a facility operated by Blinkit, another quick-commerce platform, was suspended. This action was prompted by serious violations, including a widespread cockroach infestation, inadequate cleanliness in cold storage areas, and the discovery of expired or tampered products. Officials also noted food items stored on rusted racks at the Blinkit facility.

The Karnataka government stated that the special inspection campaign identified multiple violations and warned that businesses failing to adhere to safety regulations would face severe legal consequences. In addition to the Zepto warehouse, three Indira Canteens in Bengaluru were also inspected, with one being sealed and others receiving notices for labelling and misbranding issues.

Zepto acknowledged the inspections and stated its commitment to addressing the observations made by the authorities and enhancing its food safety processes. Blinkit's facility is prohibited from conducting any food business during the suspension period.