Mumbai: FDA Suspends Blinkit Malad Store’s Food Licence Over Cockroach Infestation, Expired Food

Malad, 12th August 2026: The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has suspended the food licence of Blink Commerce Pvt. Ltd., which operates quick-commerce platform Blinkit, after an inspection of its Malad West dark store revealed serious food safety and hygiene violations.

The FDA inspection was conducted on 7th August at the Blinkit facility located on Ramchandra Lane in Malad West. Officials reportedly found the premises in an “extremely unclean” condition, with a heavy cockroach infestation observed on stored fruits and vegetables, raising concerns over possible food contamination.

The inspection also found food products stored directly on the floor, inadequately cleaned cold-storage facilities and expired packaged food items kept in the premises. Expired and spoiled products were reportedly found in the cold room.

Officials also noted that the facility was not following proper FIFO (First In, First Out) and FEFO (First Expired, First Out) practices for stock management. The inspection further highlighted deficiencies in pest and rodent control, waste management, cleanliness and maintenance.

The FDA also found that medical examination records for food-handling staff were not available, adding to the list of food safety violations recorded during the inspection.

In view of the serious violations, the FDA suspended the facility’s food licence with immediate effect until further orders. The establishment has been prohibited from selling or distributing food or conducting any food-related business from the premises during the suspension period.

The action is limited to the inspected Malad West facility and does not amount to a suspension of Blinkit’s overall food operations.

The FDA’s action comes amid intensified checks on food safety and hygiene standards at food establishments and quick-commerce facilities in Maharashtra.