The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has slapped a total of nine notices on Swiggy Instamart over a string of complaints filed by consumers, who alleged they were delivered expired, spoiled, contaminated and otherwise unsafe food and edibles through the quick commerce platform.

The food safety body has sought an in-depth explanation from the company and has also warned that failure to comply with its directives could invite action under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.

Consumers’ complaints ring alarm bells over food safety

As per the FSSAI, the complaints highlighted numerous instances where consumers allegedly received food products which were unfit for consumption. The allegations included the supply of expired whey protein, rotten eggs, spoiled ready-to-eat meals, contaminated infant food formulations, damaged packaged food items and milk, besides concerns over inadequate grievance redressal and lapses in food safety compliance.

Among the products flagged by the FSSAI were Healthify 100% Whey Protein (1 kg) and Noice Homestyle Madras Mixture with Peanuts, which were allegedly delivered after their expiry dates.

The body also cited a complaint with the Akshayakalpa Organic Egg at the centre of it, which was allegedly found to be expired, rotten, foul-smelling and contaminated. The complainant further alleged that despite escalating the issue, no corrective action had been taken by the persons concerned.

Another complaint concerned Kakke Da Paratha, which was reportedly delivered in a spoiled condition with a foul odour, rendering it unfit for consumption.

Food meant for toddlers, milk and eggs under scanner

Furthermore, the FSSAI noted allegations involving an infant food formulation which was reportedly found in a highly deteriorated and unsafe condition due to suspected contamination and improper storage.

It was alleged in the complaint that the same product was supplied again even after the defective item had been returned.

Additional complaints alleged the delivery of contaminated eggs, milk and damaged edibles.

Amid a string of complaints, the FSSAI also flagged concerns over the marketing of ‘NOICE’ eggs under a brand category allegedly not covered by the company’s existing FSSAI license. It directed the food business operator to refrain from marketing the product unless it is covered under a valid license and to seek the license’s modification wherever necessary.

Documentary evidence sought from Instamart

The FSSAI has issued instructions to Swiggy Instamart to submit documentary evidence addressing the alleged violations, along with details of its quality assurance protocols, stock rotation systems, inventory management, storage and hygiene practices, corrective and preventive actions (CAPA), root cause analyses and consumer grievance redressal mechanisms.

The regulator has also sought measures adopted to prevent potential similar incidents in the future.

Moreover, it issued a warning that failure to furnish the required compliance report within the stipulated timeframe could lead to action under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.