Key Update

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has sought an explanation from quick-commerce platform Blinkit after receiving a complaint from a consumer who allegedly fell ill after consuming curd purchased through the app, according to sources.

Consumer Complaint Triggers Regulatory Action

According to sources, a consumer submitted a written complaint to FSSAI after developing severe stomach pain and diarrhoea shortly after consuming curd ordered through the Blinkit mobile application. The consumer also attached a medical prescription documenting the treatment received following the incident. In response, FSSAI issued a notice on May 29 to Blink Commerce Pvt Ltd, which operates Blinkit, and to the official responsible for the platform’s operations.

FSSAI Seeks Action Taken Report

FSSAI has directed Blinkit to explain the incident and submit a comprehensive Action Taken Report (ATR). Sources said the regulator has recently received several complaints, including those raised on social media, about sellers supplying unhygienic, spoiled, or damaged food products through the Blinkit platform. The Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, requires e-commerce Food Business Operators (FBOs) to comply with Sections 26 and 27 of the law. These provisions place responsibility on food business operators to ensure the safety of food products they manufacture, store, distribute, or sell through their platforms.

Previous Complaints Against Blinkit

Earlier this month, FSSAI also sought an explanation from Blinkit over consumer complaints about poor-quality eggs sold through the platform. The regulator took suo motu cognisance of complaints shared on social media and initiated action. In a separate case, FSSAI recently issued a notice to IRCTC after taking suo motu cognisance of a social media video allegedly showing staff washing utensils in a train compartment toilet area. The video raised concerns about food hygiene practices in railway catering services.

Source: Deccan Herald