Taking strict action against the violation of public health and food safety standards, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has suspended the manufacturing licenses of two prominent food processing companies. The regulatory body cracked down on Uttar Pradesh-based VKC Nuts Private Limited and Maharashtra-based Chheda Specialties Foods Private Limited. Both entities supply packaged dry fruits, chips, and traditional namkeen across major e-commerce platforms including Instamart. During physical inspections of their production facilities, FSSAI officials uncovered appalling unsanitary conditions and widespread non-compliance with hygiene regulations.
Live Insects and Black Mold Discovered at VKC Nuts
The FSSAI inspection team encountered critical safety violations during their visit to the VKC Nuts unit located in Uttar Pradesh. Officials discovered live insects inside batches of pistachios, highlighting an extensive pest infestation within the processing facility. Furthermore, the walls and ceilings of the raw material storage area were covered in thick black mold and fungus. The machinery deployed in the processing section was found to be rusty, dirty, and severely damaged.
The inspection further revealed that plastic trays, storage crates, knives, and containers used for handling food products were old, cracked, and unwashed. Officials spotted a live lizard crawling across the floor right next to open crates packed with figs. Additionally, swarms of flies were seen hovering over uncovered food items in processing zones, pointing to a complete breakdown of pest control measures across the facility.
Unsanitary Handling and Rotting Waste at Chheda Specialties
The inspection at Maharashtra-based Chheda Specialties Foods Private Limited revealed equally hazardous operational practices. According to FSSAI, food handlers inside the plant were observed mixing gram flour (besan) with their bare hands. In another severe breach, workers were seated on a contaminated floor peeling bananas immediately adjacent to piles of decaying garbage, creating an extreme risk of contamination.
FSSAI announced through a official communication that the suspension of operational licenses for both facilities will remain in effect until comprehensive corrective measures are fully implemented. To regain their authorization, both companies must demonstrate strict compliance with deep cleaning, pest control management, proper waste disposal, structural repairs, and mandatory hygiene training for all production personnel.
