Rons Bantwal

Daijiworld Media Network- Mumbai

Mumbai, Jul 27: In a significant development following the controversy at the Akashwani MLA Hostel in Churchgate, the Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has confirmed that the food served on July 9 was not stale, refuting allegations made by Shiv Sena MLA Sanjay Gaikwad. The legislator had earlier accused the canteen staff of serving spoiled food, following which he allegedly assaulted a canteen employee.

According to senior FDA officials, laboratory tests conducted on food samples collected from the canteen revealed no signs of spoilage. A team of six officials from the FDA had conducted an immediate inspection at the Ajanta Caterers-run facility and collected 16 food samples for testing. The results indicated that the food was safe for consumption.

Despite this, the investigation unearthed several alarming lapses in food safety standards. FDA food safety officer R S Bodke, who led the inspection, reported at least 19 serious violations in the canteen's kitchen. These included poor sanitation, improper kitchen layout, lack of hygiene among staff, weak operational controls, and inadequate record-keeping.

The dal in question, Gaikwad alleged, had a foul smell and made him vomit after a single bite. While the FDA confirmed that the dal was served hot, it had been stored in a plastic bag, which may have caused a change in its aroma and taste, leading to the perception that it was stale.

Taking strong note of the hygiene violations, Assistant Commissioner (Food) Anupama Balasaheb Patil issued an immediate suspension order against Ajanta Caterers for failing to comply with provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 and related licensing regulations. Ajanta Caterers had taken charge of the canteen on June 26, 2024, under a contract valid until September 27, 2027.

In light of the incident, the Maharashtra FDA has announced surprise inspections across canteens operating in government institutions. “We are empowered to inspect food served at government premises, and we will carry out unannounced checks in the coming days to ensure strict adherence to food safety norms,” an FDA official stated.

The episode has sparked conversations on food quality in government-run facilities and the importance of robust hygiene protocols in mass catering environments.