FSSAI Issues Notices to Radisson Blu Delhi Operator, Flipkart and BigBasket Over Food Safety Concerns

In a notice to AB Hotels Ltd, which operates Radisson Blu Hotel in New Delhi, the FSSAI flagged poor maintenance of premises and equipment. The deficiencies included rusted machinery, freezer leakage and problems with refrigeration, temperature monitoring, ventilation, flooring and lighting.

The regulator also reported inadequate cleaning and sanitisation, stagnant water, drainage problems and improper food-waste management. The regulator noted pest-control deficiencies, including the presence of cockroaches and flies.

The hotel operator was also found to have inadequate food procurement and receiving checks, with fungal-affected and deteriorated fruits and vegetables reportedly being received. The FSSAI flagged gaps in approved-vendor records and traceability procedures.

According to the regulator, the hotel did not conduct checks to determine the suitability of cooking oil as required. The hotel's NYC Kitchen was found using oil with total polar compound (TPC) values of 31 and 24.4.

Other deficiencies included improper segregation of raw and cooked food, as well as vegetarian and non-vegetarian items. Food handlers were also observed working without gloves and hairnets, while some wore jewellery and had long nails.

The FSSAI directed the hotel operator to take immediate corrective measures and submit a detailed Action Taken Report. It warned that further action, including suspension of the food safety licence, could follow if the deficiencies were not addressed.

In a separate action, the regulator issued a notice to Gemini Edibles & Fats India Ltd, Innovative Retail Concepts Pvt Ltd, which operates BigBasket, and Flipkart India Pvt Ltd over promotional claims concerning “Freedom Cooking Rice Bran Oil”.

The product was advertised on e-commerce platforms and social media with claims that it “reduces bad cholesterol and maintains/increases good cholesterol” and contains “10,000+ PPM Natural Oryzanol”. The promotions linked consumption of the oil with cholesterol management and heart health.

The FSSAI said these claims were not permitted under the applicable provisions of the Food Safety and Standards (Advertising and Claims) Regulations, 2018. It also found that Gemini Edibles was offering products through its own e-commerce website without a valid Central Licence covering e-commerce activities.

The companies concerned have been directed to explain why action should not be initiated against them.

In a third enforcement action, the regulator suspended the licence of DNV Food Products Ltd with immediate effect after finding food being manufactured, packed and stored in unhygienic conditions.

The inspection reportedly found flies, stagnant water and cobwebs at the premises, including a fly in direct contact with papad.