Maharashtra Food And Drug Administration To Conduct Surprise Checks At Quick Commerce Dark Stores After Consumer Complaints
Maharashtra Food And Drug Administration To Conduct Surprise Checks At Quick Commerce Dark Stores After Consumer Complaints
Pune, February 27, 2026: The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has announced that it will carry out unannounced inspections of dark stores and warehouses operated by quick commerce platforms across the state. The decision was shared in the legislative assembly by Food and Drug Administration Minister Narhari Zirwal following concerns over the alleged sale of expired food products through online delivery services.
During the assembly session, several legislators raised questions about the monitoring of quick commerce operations. They pointed out that inspections are often triggered only after complaints are filed and highlighted possible shortcomings in storage standards at small fulfillment centres, commonly referred to as dark stores.
Responding to these concerns, Zirwal said the department plans to strengthen enforcement by introducing regular surprise visits, regardless of whether complaints have been received. He added that the government is considering amendments to existing rules to make self-declaration of remaining shelf life mandatory for food products. Establishments will be required to clearly declare expiry details and adhere strictly to storage regulations.
Lawmakers also suggested technological safeguards, including compulsory barcode scanning systems, to prevent expired goods from being dispatched. Concerns were raised that many consumers fail to immediately verify expiry dates, increasing the risk of unsafe products entering households.
The minister acknowledged that limited manpower had previously restricted proactive inspections but noted that the department has recently recruited 191 trained personnel. With additional staff now deployed, the FDA intends to intensify both routine and surprise inspections statewide.
Quick commerce companies such as Blinkit, Swiggy, Instamart and Zepto have expanded rapidly in Maharashtra, operating app-based grocery delivery services through multiple dark stores. Officials confirmed that complaints about expired food deliveries have surfaced in recent months.
In one instance, an inspection conducted on November 28, 2025, at a Blinkit facility in Pimple Gurav did not uncover expired stock during the physical check. However, scrutiny of records indicated that outdated products had previously been delivered. The outlet was fined ₹2 lakh and a case was registered.
The FDA has also announced plans to meet representatives of food establishment owners’ associations and public officials to reinforce compliance with food safety standards. Authorities said stricter monitoring and enforcement measures are aimed at safeguarding public health and restoring consumer confidence in the fast-growing quick commerce sector.
