Maharashtra FDA Takes Action Against IRCTC-Linked and ISKCON Juhu Food Establishments Over Safety Violations

Mumbai: The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has taken regulatory action against several food establishments linked to the Indian Railway Catering and Tourism Corporation (IRCTC) and outlets operating at ISKCON Juhu after inspections reportedly identified multiple food safety and hygiene deficiencies.

According to the FDA, inspections were conducted at five IRCTC-linked establishments across Mumbai and Thane, along with food outlets located on the ISKCON Juhu premises.

Officials reported concerns including hygiene deficiencies, improper storage and segregation of food, pest-related issues, clogged drains, inadequate food and water testing, and the absence of mandatory safety records.

IRCTC-linked Outlet's Licence Suspended

The FDA has suspended the licence of RK Associates & Hoteliers Pvt Ltd in Kurla West from September 8 until further orders. The establishment was initially inspected on September 2 and was subsequently re-inspected. According to officials, some of the reported deficiencies had not been adequately addressed, leading to the suspension.

Four other IRCTC-linked establishments have been issued improvement notices. These include Om Sai Ram Enterprises and Ambuj Hotels & Real Estate Pvt Ltd in Chembur, Express Food Services in Powai, and Araha Hospitality Pvt Ltd in Kopri Colony, Thane East.

Action Against Three ISKCON Juhu Establishments

The FDA also initiated regulatory action against three food establishments operating at ISKCON Juhu following inspections conducted on September 3.

Officials reportedly identified several deficiencies, including inadequate testing of food and drinking water, improper segregation of raw and cooked food, water accumulation and clogged drains, and pest-related concerns.

At one outlet, inspectors reportedly found pest droppings inside a storeroom, while an open rear kitchen entrance was identified as a possible route for pests to enter.

The inspection also reportedly found that some food handlers were not wearing prescribed protective clothing. Records relating to employees' medical examinations, vaccinations and food safety training were also reportedly unavailable.

Govinda's Restaurant Among Establishments Facing Action

Govinda's Restaurant at ISKCON Juhu was also among the establishments where the FDA reported food safety deficiencies. Officials flagged concerns relating to raw-material checks, food segregation, drainage, pest-control arrangements and records concerning staff medical fitness and food safety training.

The FDA has emphasised that basic food safety practices, including proper hygiene, pest control, safe food storage, testing and maintenance of mandatory records, are essential requirements for food establishments.

The establishments facing licence suspension or improvement notices will be required to address the reported deficiencies and comply with prescribed food safety standards before receiving further regulatory clearance, as applicable.

Note: The deficiencies mentioned in this report are based on findings and regulatory action reported by the Maharashtra FDA. The establishments have not been described as guilty of any offence beyond the regulatory findings or action taken by the authorities.