Food Safety – Maharashtra FDA Seizes Food Stock Worth Over Rs 8 Lakh During Pune Inspection
Food Safety -The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has taken enforcement action against a food business in Pune, confiscating food products valued at Rs 8.14 lakh during an inspection conducted at a Market Yard establishment. Officials clarified that the operation was based on suspected violations of food safety regulations and was not part of the ongoing investigation into the Ketan Agarwal murder case.
Inspection Conducted at Market Yard Establishment
According to information shared by officials, the inspection took place on July 14 at M/s BG Goyal & Company, a business owned by Pravin Goyal, father of Siya Goyal, who has been identified as the principal accused in the Ketan Agarwal murder case. The Maharashtra FDA stated that the inspection focused exclusively on compliance with food safety laws and licensing requirements, with no direct connection to the criminal investigation.
Food Items Worth Rs 8.14 Lakh Seized
During the inspection, authorities seized multiple food products after identifying alleged violations. The confiscated stock included 598 kilograms of one brand of turmeric powder, 1,258 kilograms of another turmeric powder brand, 538 kilograms of sesame seeds, and 1,778 kilograms of soya mini chunks. The total estimated value of the seized goods was Rs 8,14,630.
Officials said the products were held for further examination after concerns were raised regarding regulatory compliance and possible quality issues.
Samples Sent for Laboratory Examination
The FDA collected four food samples from the premises for scientific testing to determine whether the products meet prescribed safety and quality standards. The samples included turmeric powder, sesame seeds, and soya mini chunks from different brands available at the store.
Laboratory analysis will help establish whether the products are substandard or unsafe for consumption. The department said appropriate action will be taken after the test reports are received.
Alleged Violations Identified During Inspection
The Food and Drug Administration stated that the enforcement action followed the discovery of several suspected violations at the storage facility. Officials alleged that the storeroom was operating without the required licence and that certain products did not comply with prescribed labelling norms. Authorities also cited concerns that some food items might not meet mandatory food safety standards, prompting the seizure.
The FDA emphasized that such inspections are carried out to protect consumers and ensure that businesses handling food products comply with applicable regulations.
Officials Oversaw the Enforcement Operation
The inspection was conducted by Food Safety Officers K.L. Sonkamble and Pratik Jadhav under the supervision of Assistant Commissioner Nilesh Khose. Pune Zone-1 operates under the administrative control of Joint Commissioner (Food) D.W. Bhogawade.
The department has not announced any additional action beyond the seizure and laboratory testing at this stage. Further proceedings will depend on the outcome of the analysis and any subsequent findings related to the alleged violations.