Maharashtra FDA Suspends Licence of 110-Year-Old Parsi Dairy Farm at Marine Lines Over Hygiene Violations

One of Mumbai's oldest and most celebrated dairy establishments, after an inspection allegedly uncovered serious food safety and hygiene violations at its Marine Lines facility. The action forms part of the FDA's ongoing state-wide drive to enforce food safety standards across Maharashtra.

Established over 110 years ago, Parsi Dairy Farm has long been a household name in Mumbai, renowned for its milk, sweets, kulfis, and traditional dairy products. The suspension has come as a shock to generations of loyal customers who associate the brand with quality and heritage.

According to FDA officials, an inspection conducted at the dairy's manufacturing unit revealed multiple alleged violations of food safety regulations. Inspectors reportedly found mould growth on production area walls, poor sanitation, improper storage of raw materials, inadequate pest-control measures, incomplete medical records of food handlers, and food products lacking mandatory expiry or "best before" labels. Authorities also noted deficiencies in waste management and hygiene practices at the facility.

Based on the inspection findings, the FDA suspended the establishment's licence with immediate effect. During the suspension period, the dairy has been prohibited from manufacturing, storing, selling, or distributing food products until it rectifies the deficiencies and complies with the requirements of the Food Safety and Standards Act and related regulations.

The action against Parsi Dairy Farm was part of the Maharashtra FDA's broader "Safe Food, Safe Maharashtra" enforcement campaign, during which officials conducted inspections at food manufacturing units, restaurants, hotels, and dairy establishments across the state. The state-wide drive also resulted in the seizure of adulterated and mislabelled food products worth nearly ₹1.9 crore and legal action against multiple violators.

The suspension has sparked widespread discussion among Mumbaikars, many of whom expressed disappointment over the action against one of the city's most iconic food brands. While several citizens described the development as unfortunate, others welcomed the FDA's strict enforcement, stating that food safety standards should be maintained irrespective of an establishment's age or reputation.

FDA officials have maintained that public health remains the department's top priority and that all food businesses, regardless of their legacy or popularity, are expected to comply with prescribed food safety and hygiene norms. The licence suspension will remain in force until the establishment addresses all deficiencies and receives clearance from the regulatory authorities.