New Delhi: The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued nine notices to Swiggy Instamart following multiple consumer complaints alleging violations of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. The regulator has directed the quick-commerce platform to submit a detailed explanation and compliance report, warning that failure to do so could invite legal action.
According to FSSAI, the complaints relate to the alleged supply of expired, spoiled, rotten, contaminated and otherwise unsafe food products through Swiggy Instamart.
Products flagged by FSSAI
The food regulator identified several products that were allegedly sold in violation of food safety norms.
Among them, NOICE Eggs were reportedly marketed under a brand category that was not covered under the existing FSSAI licence. The regulator directed the Food Business Operator (FBO) to stop selling the product until it is covered by a valid licence and to apply for a licence modification if required.
FSSAI also alleged that Healthify 100% Whey Protein (1 kg) and Noice Homestyle Madras Mixture with Peanuts were supplied after their expiry dates.
In another complaint, Akshayakalpa Organic Eggs were reportedly found to be expired, rotten and emitting a foul odour, with signs of contamination that rendered them unfit for consumption. The regulator noted that no corrective action was taken despite the issue being escalated.
Similarly, Kakke da Paratha was allegedly delivered in a spoiled condition, with a foul smell and deemed unfit for human consumption. FSSAI said no corrective measures were taken after the complaint was raised.
Regulator seeks detailed compliance report
FSSAI has directed Swiggy Instamart to provide documentary evidence explaining the alleged violations and the circumstances that led to the reported incidents.
The regulator has also sought details of the company’s quality assurance systems, food safety monitoring processes, inventory management, stock rotation practices, storage conditions, hygiene protocols and internal controls.
Additionally, Swiggy Instamart has been asked to submit a root cause analysis, corrective and preventive action (CAPA) report, consumer grievance redressal mechanism and measures taken to prevent similar incidents in the future.
The compliance report must be submitted within the stipulated timeframe, failing which FSSAI said it may initiate action under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
Swiggy responds
Responding to the notices, Swiggy said it is reviewing the products flagged by FSSAI and is working with the authorities to address the concerns.
“We are reviewing the flagged listings by FSSAI and are in touch with the authorities to resolve the same,” the company said in a statement.
Conclusion
The latest action underscores FSSAI’s continued scrutiny of food safety standards in India’s rapidly expanding quick-commerce sector. The outcome of Swiggy Instamart’s response will determine whether the regulator proceeds with further action under the Food Safety and Standards Act.
