Why Did FSSAI Suspend Licences of CHHEDA Specialities Foods and VKC Nuts?

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has stepped up enforcement action against food business operators, with licence suspensions and other regulatory measures following inspections that flagged serious food safety and hygiene violations.

CHHEDA Specialities Foods Raided Over Critical Violations

CHHEDA Specialities Foods Pvt., a Mumbai-based manufacturer and exporter of ethnic snacks, banana chips and related products, was raided over critical food-safety violations. The company is based in Kandivali West, Mumbai, Maharashtra, and has been operating for approximately 25 years. It holds FSSAI certification and ISO 22000:2005 certification, and is HACCP ready. Why Has FSSAI Ordered Food Businesses To Replace Rusty Knives? Know the New Food Safety Guidelines.

VKC Nuts Licence Suspended Over Multiple Non-Compliances

In another development, the licence of M/s VKC Nuts Pvt. in Uttar Pradesh was suspended after inspectors reported multiple critical non-compliances at its facility, FSSAI said in a post on X.

Licence Of CHHEDA Specialities Foods, VKC Nuts Suspended Over Food Safety Violations

FSSAI has suspended license of M/S VKC Nuts Private Ltd. & M/S CHHEDA Specialities Foods Pvt. Ltd. for serious food safety violations.

FSSAI continues to maintain strict enforcement across food sectors to protect consumer health.#FSSAINotice #FSSAIAction pic.twitter.com/QeN6SfgqMW

— FSSAI (@fssaiindia) August 8, 2026

According to inspection findings, live insects were detected in pistachios stored in the finished goods storage area, raising concerns over potential food contamination. Inspectors also observed heavy black mould and fungal growth on the walls and ceilings of the raw material storage facility. Why Has FSSAI Banned PIE Foods From Selling Monk Fruit Sweetener?

Rat Droppings, Live Lizard Found At Facility

The storage area was reportedly found in poor hygienic condition, with a dirty and greasy floor, rat droppings and food remains. The inspection also identified rusted and damaged machinery, chipped utensils, peeling paint and damaged plaster, highlighting deficiencies in the facility's infrastructure and sanitation practices.

In another serious observation, a live lizard was reportedly found near open crates containing figs. Houseflies were also seen on food products, while rodent droppings and damaged cartons containing dates were observed at the premises.

FSSAI Intensifies Enforcement Drive

The findings point to lapses across multiple stages of food handling and storage, prompting regulatory intervention by food safety authorities. FSSAI has been intensifying inspections and enforcement against food businesses over violations involving hygiene, manufacturing practices, product safety, labelling and misleading claims.

Depending on the nature and severity of violations, the regulator can initiate measures including suspension or cancellation of licences, prohibition orders and restrictions on the sale of non-compliant food products.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Aug 10, 2026 10:12 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).