FSSAI notice to Blinkit
Online grocery and quick commerce platform Blinkit has once again come under the scanner. A consumer alleged that he became ill after consuming curd ordered from Blinkit. Taking the complaint seriously, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued a notice to the company and sought a detailed report within 24 hours.
The matter came to light when a customer ordered curd through Blinkit. The consumer claims that he fell ill after eating curd. After receiving the complaint, FSSAI started investigating the matter and sought a reply from the company. According to sources, the authority has issued a notice to Blinkit asking it to clarify what action has been taken by the company on the related complaint and what steps are being taken to prevent such incidents in future.
Many complaints have also been received on social media
FSSAI says that this is not an isolated case. In the recent past, many complaints have come to light against Blinkit related to the delivery of spoiled, unhygienic and damaged food products. Some of these complaints have been lodged directly by consumers, while many cases have also been raised on social media platforms. Customers allege that many times they have received food products that are close to expiry, of poor quality or with damaged packaging. Due to continuous complaints, the regulatory body has taken the matter seriously.
Allegation of violation of food safety law
FSSAI has said in its notice that it is the responsibility of every Food Business Operator (FBO) to provide safe and quality food products. According to the authority, if a company sells or delivers food that is unsafe or harmful to health, it will be considered a violation of the Food Safety and Standards Act.
Section 26 and Section 27 of the Act have been mentioned in the notice. Section 26 prohibits the sale of unsafe or adulterated food items, while Section 27 places the responsibility of sellers and platforms on ensuring that only food products conforming to standards reach customers.
Report sought within 24 hours
Considering the seriousness of the matter, FSSAI has directed Blinkit to submit the Action Taken Report (ATR) and compliance report within 24 hours. The company will have to explain what findings came in the investigation of the complaint and what corrective steps have been taken to ensure consumer safety.
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