Zepto’s Dharavi Licence Suspended After Shocking Fungus and Expired Food Discovery

Zepto Licence Suspended Over Fungus on Food and Expired Goods

In a major setback for the quick-commerce giant, Zepto’s licence in Dharavi has been suspended after authorities uncovered fungus on food items, expired goods, and poor hygiene practices during a routine inspection. The shocking revelation has raised concerns about food safety standards among ultra-fast delivery platforms.

Fungus on Food Items Found in Zepto Warehouse

During the inspection conducted by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) and local municipal officers, fungus on food products was spotted in the storage units of Zepto’s Dharavi hub. Alongside the fungal contamination, a significant stockpile of expired goods was discovered, some allegedly still available for delivery on the app.

Authorities confirmed that the storage facility lacked basic cleanliness and violated several safety protocols. Officials highlighted mold-infested packages, dust-coated shelves, and poorly maintained refrigeration units — all of which pose a serious health risk to consumers.

Public Health Concerns Trigger Action

The presence of fungus on food and expired items directly violates FSSAI regulations, prompting immediate action. The licence suspension is a precautionary measure to prevent further distribution of potentially harmful products. The suspension will remain in place until Zepto addresses all safety and hygiene lapses and clears a fresh inspection.

Residents and regular users of Zepto in Dharavi have expressed shock and concern. For many, the platform is a trusted source for daily groceries and essentials. The idea that expired or moldy food may have been delivered has shaken consumer confidence.

Zepto Responds to Licence Suspension

In a brief statement, Zepto acknowledged the suspension of its Dharavi operations and promised full cooperation with authorities. The company stated, “We take food safety very seriously and are conducting an internal review. Immediate corrective measures are underway to ensure this does not happen again.”

Despite the apology, consumer groups and food safety advocates are calling for greater accountability from fast-delivery platforms, which are often under pressure to prioritize speed over quality control.

Why Fungus on Food Is a Serious Issue

The discovery of fungus on food raises serious health concerns. Fungal contamination can produce mycotoxins — substances known to cause food poisoning, allergic reactions, and long-term illnesses. Consuming expired goods, especially those improperly stored, can lead to foodborne diseases that are particularly dangerous for children, the elderly, and those with compromised immune systems.

Authorities urge consumers to be vigilant about checking product expiry dates, packaging condition, and smell before use — even when ordering from trusted apps.

What This Means for Other Quick-Commerce Platforms

The suspension of Zepto’s Dharavi licence over fungus on food and expired items sets a precedent for stricter inspections across the industry. Regulators may now scrutinize storage and hygiene practices more aggressively in other parts of Mumbai and other cities. The race to deliver groceries in 10 minutes may no longer shield companies from basic safety obligations.

Industry experts suggest that this could be a wake-up call for the entire quick-commerce sector to invest more in quality assurance, staff training, and regular audits.

Consumer Trust on the Line

While Zepto has built a reputation for fast and convenient service, incidents like these erode the trust customers place in the brand. With rising competition from Blinkit, Swiggy Instamart, and BigBasket, Zepto may find it challenging to maintain its market share if such issues are not swiftly resolved.

For now, the Dharavi suspension serves as a reminder that in food delivery, safety must come before speed.

Conclusion: A Critical Moment for Zepto and the Industry

The suspension of Zepto’s licence due to fungus on food and expired products sends a strong message about the importance of food safety. It is a clear call for accountability, not just for Zepto but for the entire fast-delivery ecosystem. As authorities tighten regulations and consumers demand higher standards, companies must prioritize hygiene and compliance to maintain their position in the market.