Hello Mumbai City Desk
FDA Suspends Food Licences of CCI, Willingdon and Four Elite Mumbai Clubs Over Hygiene Violations
Mumbai: The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has suspended the food licences of five of Mumbai’s prominent clubs after inspections reportedly uncovered serious hygiene and food safety violations in their kitchens.
The action has been taken against the Cricket Club of India (CCI), MIG Cricket Club, RK Juhu Gymkhana, Aparna Juhu Gymkhana, and Willingdon Sports Club following inspections that revealed multiple lapses in food handling, storage, sanitation, and infrastructure.
According to the FDA, inspectors found common issues across the establishments, including pest infestation, unhygienic storage conditions, deteriorating walls and ceilings, and inadequate food handler hygiene.
Key Findings
Cricket Club of India (CCI): Live cockroaches, mouldy vegetables, expired food items, and improper handling of utensils and food on the floor were reportedly found during the inspection.
MIG Cricket Club: Officials noted hygiene issues similar to those found at CCI, along with the absence of a valid FSSAI licence.
RK Juhu Gymkhana: The inspection revealed improper cleaning of raw materials and inadequate personal hygiene practices among food handlers.
Willingdon Sports Club: Authorities found deficiencies in temperature monitoring systems and outdated food and water testing reports.
Aparna Juhu Gymkhana: Inspectors reported rusty and unsanitised cooking equipment, along with pest infestation in the kitchen.
The FDA said the licences have been suspended until the clubs rectify the deficiencies and comply with food safety regulations.
Meanwhile, CCI President Madhumati Lele reportedly described the FDA’s observations as “minor.”
In a related development, the proprietor of Poornima, a popular South Indian restaurant in South Mumbai’s Fort area, has approached the Bombay High Court challenging the FDA’s closure order. The restaurant has argued that although it offered food samples for testing, the authorities did not collect them as required under law.
The FDA has intensified inspections across Mumbai in recent weeks as part of its drive to enforce food safety standards and ensure public health.
