The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has sent a notice to quick commerce platform Blinkit over allegedly selling substandard eggs. The notice was sent after the food safety authority took cognisance of several complaints on social media regarding the poor quality of eggs being sold through Blinkit.
Sources said that a notice has been sent to Blink Commerce Pvt Ltd over these complaints. FSSAI has sought a response from Eternal-owned quick commerce platform and it has asked it to submit a comprehensive action taken report within seven days. In case of failure to comply, the FSSAI will take appropriate action in accordance with the provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act.
In its notice, FSSAI has pointed out to Section 27 of the FSS Act, 2006, which stipulates that a food business operator shall be responsible for the safety of any article of food manufactured, stored, or distributed by them.
Last year, in a series of meetings with e-commerce and quick commerce players, the FSSAI had
warned e-commerce and quick commerce platforms against flouting food safety and hygiene norms failing which stringent action will be taken.
All e-commerce and quick-commerce operators are required to have Central licensing for their entire supply. Infact, FSSAI has in a series of advisory in the past, directed e-commerce food business operators to ensure last-mile delivery personnel are trained in food safety and hygiene practices. It has also said that all personnel involved in handling including logistics, storage and delivery must be trained and certified in hygiene protocols. This training should cover safe handling and transportation of food to prevent contamination, as well as personal hygiene and proper sanitisation procedures, among others.