Expired Maggi, Lay’s Seized in Navi Mumbai Food Labelling Racket

Shoppers in Navi Mumbai might have unknowingly picked up expired snacks and beverages after a major food labelling racket was busted, revealing tampered dates on popular items.

The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA), spearheaded by Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe, uncovered this significant operation in the Turbhe area of Navi Mumbai. Their week-long investigation, conducted between August 24 and August 29, led to substantial confiscations.

Investigators found that manufacturing and expiry dates on various food products were allegedly being altered. Crucial ingredient and nutritional information stickers were also tampered with, misleading consumers about what they were purchasing.

Popular Brands Caught in the Racket

Among the items seized were products from several well-known brands, raising concerns for everyday consumers.

The confiscated stock included: Lay’s, Kurkure, Maggi, Knorr, Hellmann’s, Thums Up, and Limca.

Key Figures from the Seizure

The scale of the illicit operation was revealed through the sheer volume and value of the seized goods.

The FDA operation led to the confiscation of 4,942 cartons of food products.

The estimated value of these tampered goods reached Rs 75.21 lakh.

Additionally, unlabelled and expired food products worth approximately Rs 30,600 were also seized.

This illicit stock was reportedly linked to ten different export companies, indicating a wide-reaching network. The Maharashtra FDA collaborated with the Navi Mumbai Crime Branch to conduct these raids.

As a direct consequence of the findings, an FIR was filed at Turbhe Police Station, and Sadhana Enterprises’ food license was immediately suspended. This action underscores the serious nature of the violations.

For consumers, this bust highlights the critical importance of checking product labels and expiry dates vigilantly, even on trusted brands, to ensure safety and transparency in their purchases.