Maharashtra FDA Suspends Pune University Hostel Mess Licence Over Food Hygiene Violations

The Maharashtra Food and Drugs Administration (FDA) has suspended the food licence of the girls’ hostel mess at Savitribai Phule Pune University for 14 days after an inspection revealed several hygiene and food safety violations. The action followed complaints about food quality and videos circulating online that reportedly showed insects in food served at the facility.

An FDA inspection conducted on 6 October identified cockroach activity, inadequate cleanliness and shortcomings in the personal hygiene of food handlers. Officials also found deficiencies in the mess’s documentation, including missing medical examination reports for food workers and the absence of pest-control records.

Following the inspection, the food safety officer prepared a report detailing the violations and submitted it to senior officials. A hearing was subsequently held on 8 October, after which the authorities decided to suspend the mess’s licence for a fortnight. The operator may seek reinstatement after the suspension period by taking the necessary corrective measures.

The incident has drawn attention to recurring food safety concerns at university dining facilities. In June, the FDA had taken similar action against another mess at the university after identifying hygiene deficiencies. The earlier inspection reportedly found inadequate personal protective clothing for food handlers, missing medical fitness certificates, absent water-testing and pest-control records, uncovered food storage and the use of rusted metal utensils.

The latest enforcement action underlines the need for food service establishments to maintain sanitary kitchens, control pests effectively and ensure that food handlers follow appropriate hygiene practices. Maintaining complete inspection records, conducting regular cleaning and monitoring food storage conditions are also essential to preventing contamination.

The FDA’s decision reinforces the requirement for food businesses to comply with applicable food safety regulations and to correct identified deficiencies before resuming normal operations.

09-10-2026