Maharashtra FDA Tightens Dairy Safety Norms; Violations May Attract Fine of Up to ₹10 Lakh
Maharashtra FDA Tightens Dairy Safety Norms; Violations May Attract Fine of Up to ₹10 Lakh
The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has introduced a comprehensive compliance order for the state’s dairy sector, mandating stricter food safety standards across the entire milk supply chain. Businesses found violating the new rules could face penalties of up to ₹10 lakh, along with suspension or cancellation of licences in serious cases.
The new regulations apply to milk collection centres, transporters, processors, dairy manufacturers, distributors, wholesalers, retailers, loose milk vendors and operators of automatic milk vending machines.
FDA Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe said the compliance order has been introduced to curb milk adulteration, improve hygiene standards and ensure uniform implementation of food safety regulations across Maharashtra. He added that multiple existing regulations have been consolidated into a single framework to simplify compliance and strengthen enforcement.
Under the new guidelines, all dairy establishments must implement Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Point (HACCP) systems, conduct regular food safety risk assessments and update preventive control measures. Businesses are also required to use food-grade stainless steel equipment, storage tanks and utensils that can be cleaned effectively, while maintaining proper pest control measures.
The FDA has warned that businesses operating without valid licences or registrations, selling adulterated milk, making misleading claims or violating food safety norms will face strict action, including hefty fines and licence cancellation in severe cases.
The compliance order also strengthens oversight of milk procurement and transportation. Dairy businesses must purchase milk only from registered suppliers and maintain detailed procurement records. Milk tankers will be subject to routine cleanliness inspections, and both transporters and businesses using non-compliant vehicles will be held accountable for violations.
Mundhe also referred to recent enforcement action against hotels and restaurants that were found using fake pest control certificates, warning that similar fraudulent practices in the dairy sector would invite stringent penalties.
According to the FDA, the new compliance framework was prepared after consultations with milk producers and dairy manufacturers. The department has also conducted awareness and training programmes to help stakeholders understand and implement the revised food safety standards.
The initiative aims to improve milk quality, strengthen food safety practices and ensure that safe and hygienic dairy products reach consumers across Maharashtra.
