Zepto issues first statement after FDA flags ‘shocking’ food safety violations at Dharavi facility

Mumbai: Quick-commerce platform Zepto has issued its first official response after the Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) found serious hygiene lapses at its Dharavi storage facility during a recent inspection.

A Zepto spokesperson, addressing the issue, said, "We have initiated an internal review and are working closely with the authorities concerned to ensure full and swift compliance."

The Times of India reported, the company further confirmed that it is in the process of implementing 'corrective measures' to address the violations and aims to resume operations in accordance with legal and food safety standards.

The FDA had earlier suspended the food business license of Kiranakart Technologies, Zepto’s parent company, citing violations related to food safety, expired stock, and improper storage conditions. The suspension remains in place pending compliance approval from the authorities.

The inspection was conducted based on a tip-off from Yogesh Kadam, Maharashtra’s Minister of State for FDA and was led by a team under Assistant Commissioner (Food) Anupamaa Balasaheb Patil.