Mumbai’s iconic ice cream establishment, K. Rustom & Co., Churchgate, has reportedly had its food business licence suspended by the Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) following an inspection that allegedly uncovered significant food safety and hygiene violations.
According to inspection findings and media reports, the FDA observed several deficiencies, including expired food products, pest infestation, inadequate cold-chain management, and the absence of mandatory food safety records. The inspection also reportedly identified lapses in hygiene and sanitation standards prescribed for licensed food business operators.
The reported action has been initiated under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, including Section 32(3), read with Schedule 4 of the Food Safety and Standards (Licensing and Registration of Food Businesses) Regulations, 2011. These provisions empower the licensing authority to suspend or cancel a food business licence where continued non-compliance poses a risk to public health and safety.
The incident reinforces an important legal principle: compliance with food safety laws is mandatory for every food business, irrespective of its legacy, popularity, or commercial standing. The regulatory framework places equal emphasis on hygienic practices, proper storage, record maintenance, and consumer protection, with enforcement aimed at ensuring that public health standards are consistently maintained.
At the same time, it is important to note that the reported findings are based on inspection records and information available in the public domain at the time of publication. Any response by the establishment, corrective measures undertaken, or further proceedings will be governed by the due process contemplated under the Food Safety and Standards Act and other applicable laws.
The Litigant will continue to monitor developments in the matter and provide updates as and when they emerge.
By Tanisha Swetta
