Food safety

FDA Flags 19 Hygiene Violations at Mumbai’s MLA Hostel Canteen Despite Serving Fresh Food

agronfoodAugust 1, 2025

Inspection exposes serious lapses in food safety practices at government-run facility

In a recent surprise inspection carried out by the Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA), the canteen at the MLA Hostel in Mumbai’s Nariman Point was found to have 19 violations related to food safety and hygiene, even though the food served was found to be fresh and free from contamination.

The inspection, conducted on July 25, was prompted by complaints and media reports alleging unhygienic conditions at the government-run canteen, which caters to elected representatives and staff. While lab tests on food samples confirmed that the food met quality and freshness standards, the FDA team noted several operational failures that could pose long-term health risks if left unaddressed.

“Our team found that while the food was freshly prepared and did not pose immediate health risks, there were multiple lapses in food safety protocols, including poor storage, absence of pest control, and lack of hygiene training among staff,” said Rajesh Narvekar, FDA Commissioner, Maharashtra.

Key Violations Identified by the FDA:

·       Improper segregation of raw and cooked food, increasing the risk of cross-contamination
·       Inadequate temperature control during food storage and service
·       Absence of hygiene records for kitchen staff and food handlers
·       Unclean preparation surfaces, including countertops and storage shelves
·       Lack of valid pest control certification or routine pest management
·       Non-maintenance of equipment and poor sanitation in wash areas

Following the inspection, the FDA issued a formal notice to the canteen operator under the Food Safety and Standards Act (FSS Act), 2006, mandating immediate corrective actions. A follow-up inspection has been scheduled to ensure compliance.

A Wake-up Call for Institutional Caterers

This incident underscores the critical need for strict adherence to Good Hygienic Practices (GHP) and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) in institutional and B2B foodservice settings, including government-run facilities. With increasing scrutiny from the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) and state FDAs, all foodservice establishments are expected to maintain robust hygiene protocols.

For industrial caterers, institutional kitchens, and hospitality contractors, the case serves as a timely reminder to:

  • Conduct regular internal hygiene audits
  • Train kitchen staff on food safety and personal hygiene
  • Maintain detailed records of compliance and staff health checks
  • Ensure infrastructure upgrades where necessary to meet safety norms

Failure to comply with food safety standards not only invites regulatory penalties but also damages the reputation and trust of the institution—especially when public offices are involved.

As government-run kitchens continue to serve large volumes daily, especially to key administrative staff and legislators, maintaining hygiene excellence is not just a regulatory obligation but also a public responsibility.