New Delhi, August 1: The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has suspended the food business licence of Switz Foods Private Limited after an inspection of its manufacturing facility uncovered major violations of food safety and hygiene standards.
FSSAI Action Against Switz Foods
In a statement issued on Saturday, FSSAI directed the company to immediately halt all food business activities at the facility until the identified deficiencies are rectified and full compliance with the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006 is achieved.
According to the regulator, the inspection revealed multiple non conformities that posed significant risks to food safety. Food products were reportedly being manufactured, packed and stored under unhygienic conditions, increasing the possibility of contamination.
Inspectors found poor cleaning and sanitation standards across several sections of the facility, including the crate washing area, non vegetarian food reception section and the washing area near the carrot cutting machine.
FSSAI also reported that food contact equipment and surfaces, including machinery, crates, trays, trolleys, moulds and heated kettles, were inadequately cleaned and maintained. Water leakage from air conditioning pipelines was observed over the product storage area, while the crate washing system was found to be non functional.
The inspection further identified rust and corrosion on food processing equipment, inadequate lighting and ventilation, and improper storage of food materials, chemicals and personal belongings.
Officials also detected significant pest infestation, including flies, mosquitoes and fruit flies. The facility reportedly had cobwebs, damp walls, peeling paint, broken floor tiles and oil residue in several areas.
FSSAI noted improper segregation between vegetarian and non vegetarian products as well as between semi finished and finished goods. Raw materials and intermediate products lacked date markings, while a ready to eat chicken sandwich was found without mandatory labelling.
The regulator stated that Switz Foods Private Limited will not be permitted to resume operations until all deficiencies are addressed and the manufacturing facility fully complies with food safety regulations.
