- The Maharashtra FDA has suspended licences of four Domino's Pizza outlets, prompting a significant response from the restaurant industry.
- In response to the FDA's actions, restaurants and government canteens in Mumbai have voluntarily shut down for repairs and deep cleaning.
- The MMRDA office canteen, the Mumbai Suburban District Collector’s canteen in BKC, and one at Kalina University were among those that shut down for repairs.
- According to Vijay Shetty, even the slightest violation leads to suspension, and at least 50 per cent of members have done renovation work, with some partially shutting down or closing early for repairs.
- Shetty highlighted that the FDA is not only suspending licences but also naming and shaming restaurants, causing significant financial loss and reputational harm.
- A Kerala restaurant in Fort has increased cleaning frequency from twice to thrice daily, with staff spending 45 minutes each time on deep cleaning.
- The Hotel and Restaurant Association (Western India) trained and certified 4,018 hospitality professionals under the FoSTaC programme.
- Ayub’s roll joint in Kala Ghoda shut for four days earlier this month to fix a broken tile and repaint.
- Shree Thaker Bhojanalay in Kalbadevi announced a short break for repairs and paint, clarifying that its closure was not due to hygiene or food-safety violations.
Mumbai's restaurant scene is undergoing significant changes as many establishments and government canteens voluntarily shut down for repairs and deep cleaning. This shift comes in response to a stringent FDA crackdown following the suspension of licenses for major chains like Domino's, which has heightened scrutiny on food safety standards.
Vijay Shetty, president of the Indian Hotel & Restaurant Association (AHAR), noted that the crackdown has forced many restaurateurs into a pre-emptive overhaul mode. “Right now, even the slightest violation is leading to suspension. At least 50 per cent of our members have done renovation work,” he stated. Many restaurants are partially closing or adjusting hours to accommodate necessary repairs while maintaining operations during the day.
In South Mumbai, notable establishments like Ayub’s and Shree Thaker Bhojanalay have temporarily closed for renovations. Shree Thaker Bhojanalay clarified on Instagram that their closure was for planned upgrades, not due to hygiene violations, emphasizing the importance of maintaining a welcoming environment.
An FDA official confirmed that government canteens are also taking similar measures, with some shutting down to conduct repairs. This proactive approach reflects a broader trend among restaurateurs to enhance cleanliness and safety standards, especially during the monsoon season when hygiene is critical.
As the industry adapts to these challenges, the focus remains on ensuring compliance and restoring consumer confidence in food safety.
“Vijay Shetty of AHAR says even the slightest violation leads to suspension, with at least 50% of members renovating. The Hotel and Restaurant Association (Western India) trained 4,018 professionals under FoSTaC, while Ayub's in Kala Ghoda shut for four days for repairs.”
The Indian Express
