GHMC inspections expose safety violations at warehouses of Zepto, Swiggy, Zomato, Instamart

Hyderabad: The Food Safety Wing of the Greater Hyderabad Municipal Corporation (GHMC) carried out a surprise inspection drive across multiple storage, distribution and delivery points operated by e-commerce food platforms, following increasing complaints about expired products and poor hygiene standards.

The inspections, which took place on July 31, were conducted under the directives of the GHMC Commissioner, targeting backend facilities of platforms such as Zepto, Amazon Fresh, Instamart, Blinkit, Big Basket, Swiggy, Zomato, and others operating in the GHMC jurisdiction.

“Complaints are being frequently received regarding the delivery of expired food items and poor maintenance of quality standards by these platforms. These issues have also been highlighted in the print media,” said a GHMC official.

Violations Noted

During the drive, 27 establishments were inspected and 36 food samples were collected for further testing. The inspections revealed several violations of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and the Food Safety and Standards Rules and Regulations, 2011. Key lapses identified include:

• Food handlers working without hair caps or gloves

• Improper pest control measures

• Mixing of food and non-food products in storage

• Haphazard food storage practices

• Housefly infestation

• Absence of medical fitness certificates for food handlers

Based on the observations, notices have been issued to the concerned organisations, instructing them to rectify the defects. In cases of major violations, GHMC officials stated that adjudication proceedings would be initiated.

“This is a part of our ongoing monitoring efforts to ensure food safety for citizens. Action will be taken by the law wherever violations are confirmed,” said an official from the Food Safety Wing.

The inspection drive is still ongoing across different circles under GHMC’s jurisdiction. Officials stated that more establishments will be inspected in the coming days to ensure compliance across the rapidly growing e-commerce food sector.