A Zepto warehouse operated by Nippon Express in Hoskote, Bengaluru, has been sealed by Karnataka’s Food Safety and Drug Administration (FDA) following an inspection that found alleged violations related to food handling, storage, labelling and hygiene.
FDA Finds Food Safety Violations
The FDA’s food safety team inspected the facility to check food quality, storage conditions, labelling and handling practices. Officials reported unhygienic storage and food handling, along with non-compliant labelling and misbranding.
The warehouse was sealed under applicable food safety regulations, and a notice was issued. The FDA has also recommended legal action before the relevant adjudicating authority.
Zepto Responds to Action
Zepto said it cooperated with the authorities during the inspection and acknowledged the observations made by officials. The company said it is taking steps to address the concerns and strengthen food safety and hygiene practices.
Wider Food Safety Drive in Bengaluru
The action comes amid intensified food safety inspections across Bengaluru. The FDA has been checking hotels, restaurants, pubs, warehouses and other food-related facilities.
On August 10, officials reportedly seized or discarded 132 kg of food and disposed of 15 litres of used cooking oil after finding spoiled and unfit food at several establishments.
Indira Canteen Kitchen Also Sealed
As part of the same enforcement drive, an Indira Canteen central kitchen in Gottigere was also sealed over alleged hygiene and food handling violations. Inspections at other Indira Canteen units found issues related to labelling, misbranding and storage.
Food samples, including pulses, turmeric powder, cooking oil, jaggery, salt, sugar and prepared food, were collected for laboratory testing.
