Maharashtra FDA Suspends Licences of Mumbai Clubs, Restaurant; Bans Junk Food Sales Near Schools
Mumbai, 30th July 2026: The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has intensified its food safety drive under Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe, suspending the food business licences of several prominent clubs and a popular Mumbai restaurant over serious hygiene violations, while also introducing a statewide ban on the sale of junk food within 50 metres of schools.
During surprise inspections carried out between July 24 and 27, the FDA suspended the FSSAI licences of the Cricket Club of India (CCI), Willingdon Sports Club, MIG Cricket Club, RK Juhu Gymkhana and Aparna Juhu Gymkhana after officials found multiple food safety violations. These included cockroach and fly infestations, expired food stock, rotten vegetables, poor sanitation, clogged drains, stagnant water, unhygienic food storage practices and inadequate segregation of vegetarian and non-vegetarian food preparation areas. At MIG Cricket Club, inspectors also found an unauthorised catering agency operating without a valid FSSAI licence.
The FDA also suspended the licence of Mumbai’s iconic Poornima Restaurant in Fort after an inspection reportedly revealed fungal growth on food ingredients, flies inside the premises, dirty drains, improper storage of cooked and raw food, deteriorating kitchen infrastructure and missing health records for food handlers. The suspension will remain in force until the establishment rectifies the violations and complies with food safety standards.
In a separate move aimed at improving children’s nutrition, the FDA on July 29 issued a statewide order prohibiting the sale, advertisement and free distribution of processed foods and beverages high in fat, sugar and salt (HFSS) within a 50-metre radius of all schools. The ban covers items such as chips, chocolates, soft drinks, burgers, pizzas, samosas, vada pav and ice creams.
The directive applies to government, aided and private schools across Maharashtra. School canteens, hostel kitchens and midday meal kitchens have been instructed to prioritise healthier food options, including fruits, vegetables, whole grains and balanced meals. They are also required to obtain and maintain valid food safety licences and registrations. School managements and principals have been directed to ensure compliance, with periodic inspections planned to monitor implementation.
The latest actions are part of the FDA’s broader statewide crackdown on food safety and hygiene, with the department warning that establishments failing to meet prescribed standards will face strict regulatory action.
