FDA Inspects Mira Road Star Bazaar After Video Shows Rat Eating Corn in Vegetable Basket

Officials from the Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) launched an inspection at the Star Bazaar supermarket in the Kanakia area of Mira Road, Mumbai, following the emergence of a viral video showing a rat eating corn inside a vegetable basket. The incident, which was reported on Wednesday, has sparked widespread concern among local residents regarding food safety and hygiene.

The viral footage, which quickly gained traction across social media platforms, allegedly showed a large rat sitting inside a product basket filled with corn. The rodent was seen eating the vegetables that were kept on display for sale to the public. Beyond the rat, the video also claimed that other pests, including cockroaches and lizards, were present in the vegetable section of the supermarket, raising serious questions about the store's overall cleanliness.

Following the circulation of the video, Maharashtra Navnirman Sena (MNS) worker Sachin Pokle, along with a group of political activists, visited the Star Bazaar market to confront the store's staff. The activists accused the supermarket management of negligence and putting the health of daily customers at risk.

In the recorded confrontation, an MNS worker was heard questioning the supermarket staff about the alleged presence of rats in the food displays. The activist argued that the pests could easily contaminate the fresh vegetables. He asked the staff, "If tomorrow any customer falls sick, will you be able to take responsibility for their health?"

Following the confrontation, officials from the Maharashtra FDA were called to the supermarket in Mira Road. The regulatory officials inspected the premises and collected food samples from the vegetable section. The FDA officials announced that further action would be taken against the establishment in accordance with the applicable food safety rules and regulations.