FSSAI tightens scrutiny of Instamart over food safety complaints

Consumer trust in online grocery platforms depends heavily on consistent food safety and quality standards.

However, repeated customer complaints have prompted the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) to intensify its scrutiny of Swiggy Instamart.

The regulator has issued nine notices after receiving reports of expired, spoiled, and unsafe food products being delivered through the platform. The complaints point to possible violations of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.

Several customers allegedly received food items that had crossed their expiry dates or were unfit for consumption. Reported cases included Healthify 100% Whey Protein (1 kg) and Noice Homestyle Madras Mixture with Peanuts, both allegedly delivered after expiry.

Additionally, customers complained about rotten Akshayakalpa Organic Eggs with a foul smell and visible contamination. Another complaint involved Kakke da Paratha, which reportedly arrived spoiled and emitted a bad odour.

Furthermore, FSSAI highlighted concerns about the sale of NOICE Eggs. According to the regulator, the product was listed under a category not covered by the company’s existing FSSAI licence.

Therefore, the authority directed the food business operator to stop selling the product until it obtains the necessary licence approval. It also asked the company to update its licence, if required.

The regulator also flagged a complaint involving infant formula. Customers claimed the product reached them in a damaged and unsafe condition, raising concerns about storage and handling practices.

Moreover, the same product was reportedly delivered again after the defective item had already been returned. FSSAI also received complaints about contaminated milk, eggs, and damaged packaged food items.

Meanwhile, customer grievance handling has also come under the regulator’s focus. Several consumers claimed they received refunds without any detailed explanation about corrective action.

Consequently, FSSAI has sought information on Swiggy Instamart’s grievance redressal process and the measures introduced to prevent similar incidents in the future.

In addition, the notices mention alleged discrepancies in FSSAI licence information. Some products reportedly displayed incorrect, invalid, or unavailable licence numbers.

In other cases, businesses were listed under names that did not match their registered FSSAI licence details.

The latest action signals stronger regulatory oversight of quick commerce platforms.

As online grocery services continue expanding, food safety compliance and transparent customer grievance mechanisms remain critical for maintaining consumer confidence.

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