Blinkit has come under scrutiny after the Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) suspended the food licence of its Malad West facility in Mumbai following an inspection that found serious hygiene and food-safety violations.

The inspection reportedly uncovered a major cockroach infestation along with problems in food storage and cleanliness. The FDA inspected the facility on August 7, 2026, and found what it described as extremely unhygienic conditions. Cockroaches were reportedly found in areas where fruits and vegetables were stored, raising concerns about possible food contamination.

Officials also found food items stored directly on the floor, rusty racks and poorly maintained cold-storage areas. The inspection further pointed to inadequate pest and rodent control, poor waste management and maintenance issues.

The problems were not limited to the physical condition of the facility. The FDA also found expired, damaged or tampered packaged food products. The facility was reportedly not properly following the FIFO and FEFO systems, which help ensure older or soon-to-expire products are handled first.

There were also concerns about the staff handling food. The FDA flagged gaps in medical examinations and health records, along with inadequate personal hygiene and a lack of necessary protective equipment.

Following the inspection, the food licence of Blink Commerce Private Limited was suspended with immediate effect under Section 32(3) of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006. The suspension will remain in place until further instructions from the regulator.

The incident comes as Maharashtra’s FDA has stepped up inspections of food businesses across the state. For Blinkit, the action highlights the growing importance of maintaining strict hygiene standards as quick-commerce companies expand their network of dark stores and handle increasingly large volumes of fresh and packaged food.

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