Unsafe deliveries
NEW DELHI: From rotten eggs and spoiled parathas to expired whey protein and packaged snacks, Swiggy Instamart has been issued nine notices by Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) after consumer complaints alleged the delivery of unsafe and expired food products through the quick-commerce platform.The food regulator has sought a detailed explanation and compliance report from the company, warning that failure to respond satisfactorily could invite action under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.According to the notices, consumers had complained of receiving expired, spoiled, rotten, contaminated and otherwise unsafe food products through Swiggy Instamart. Among the products flagged by them were Healthify 100% Whey Protein, Noice Homestyle Madras Mixture with Peanuts, Akshayakalpa Organic Eggs and Kakke da Paratha.FSSAI said consumers had alleged that the whey protein and snack packets were delivered after their expiry dates, while the eggs were found to be rotten and emitting a foul smell, rendering them unfit for consumption. A complaint involving Kakke da Paratha alleged the product was spoiled and foul-smelling.The regulator also questioned the marketing of “NOICE” eggs, saying the brand was allegedly not covered under product categories approved under Swiggy Instamart’s existing FSSAI licence. It directed the food business operator to stop marketing the product and seek licence modification if required.The action comes amid increased regulatory scrutiny of food sold through online grocery and quick-commerce platforms as consumers increasingly rely on rapid home deliveries for daily essentials.
