Maharashtra's Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has seized 11,963 quintals of spices and spice-based products worth Rs 19.69 crore during inspections carried out ahead of Diwali, FDA Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe said in Mumbai on Thursday, October 29.

Source: PTI via NewKerala

The FDA conducted 1,057 inspections concerning spices, suspended the licences of 94 establishments and issued 557 improvement notices, Mundhe said. "A total of 1,057 inspections were conducted concerning spices. Of these, the licences of 94 establishments were suspended. A total of 11,963 quintals of spices and spice-based products, worth Rs 19.69 crore, were seized. Additionally, 557 improvement notices have been issued," he said.

Source: PTI via Devdiscourse

Mundhe said action against raw materials available in the market was necessary ahead of Diwali, and that inspections of raw materials were under way. Spices are used daily and are also an essential ingredient in Diwali faral, the festive snacks prepared for the festival, he noted.

Source: PTI via NewKerala

The action so far has been carried out at warehouses and manufacturing units. Going forward, inspections will also be conducted at retail shops and other commercial establishments, Mundhe said, adding that the department would intensify its enforcement drive as Diwali approaches because incidents of illness tend to rise during the festive season and expired and substandard food products are among the contributing factors.

Mundhe also announced details of the commission constituted to probe paper leaks and irregularities in Maharashtra Public Service Commission (MPSC) competitive examinations, saying the commission will hold public hearings and has asked candidates to file affidavits by November 16.