FDA Suspends Food Licences of Ayub's and Cafe Cadell in Mumbai Over Hygiene Violations
The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has suspended the food licence of the popular eatery Ayub's, located near Fort in Mumbai, following an inspection that revealed serious food safety and hygiene violations. The suspension took effect on August 23 under the provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act.
During their inspection of the establishment near Fort, FDA officials uncovered multiple deficiencies in its basic food safety practices. Inspectors reported the presence of houseflies, open drains, stagnant water, and the improper storage of eggs, alongside several other hygiene lapses on the premises.
The regulatory authority stated that these violations collectively pointed to major weaknesses in the eatery's food safety systems. The FDA warned that such unsanitary conditions significantly raise the risk of microbial contamination, cross-contamination, and unsafe food being served to consumers.
Regulators specifically flagged the improper storage of eggs and other perishable food products at the outlet. Officials noted that failing to maintain prescribed storage temperatures allows harmful microorganisms to multiply rapidly, increasing the danger of food-borne illnesses among patrons.
In a related action on Tuesday, the FDA also suspended the FSSAI licence of Cafe Cadell, situated near Mahim-Shivaji Park in Mumbai. Officials inspecting the cafe found that the outlet failed to adhere to prescribed food safety protocols.
At Cafe Cadell, inspectors discovered dirty cutlery and noted that vegetarian and non-vegetarian food items were being mixed, raising critical concerns over cross-contamination. The inspection team further documented inadequate kitchen ventilation, insufficient pest-control measures, unsuitable food-contact equipment, and slippery, non-compliant flooring.
The clampdown on both eateries comes as part of a wider statewide food safety drive initiated under the guidance of FDA Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe. Under this ongoing campaign, regulatory authorities are inspecting food establishments across Maharashtra and suspending operating licences in cases where severe safety and hygiene violations are detected.
