New Delhi, October 1, 2026 (Yes Punjab News)
The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has suspended the licences of TCF Chocolates and Gifts Private Limited and Shivam Agro after inspections revealed serious food safety, hygiene and sanitation violations at their facilities.
The action against TCF Chocolates and Gifts followed a consumer complaint concerning food ordered through an e-commerce platform. During an inspection, FSSAI officials reportedly found poor sanitation, pest infestation, cat droppings and uncovered drainage in food processing areas.
Inspectors also detected expired food colours and flavours, while cleaning chemicals were stored close to raw materials and food-related items, raising concerns about possible contamination. The facility was also found to have inadequate food-handler hygiene and protective practices, including lapses in jewellery control.
FSSAI noted that the firm had recorded a compliance score of just 14 per cent during an earlier inspection due to the unavailability of required documentation.
Similar lapses were found at Shivam Agro, where inspectors reported flies, garbage, stagnant sewage water, spider infestation and evidence of rodent activity. The facility also had inadequate cleaning and ineffective pest-control measures.
The regulator flagged improper storage practices, with food ingredients kept alongside non-food items and products stored in corridors and temporary storage areas. Rusting and corroded equipment were also found. The firm was using iron and ferrous tanks for blending edible oil but could not satisfactorily establish their suitability for food-contact applications.
FSSAI further identified the absence of a functional in-house laboratory at Shivam Agro and said the company failed to provide records of periodic testing of finished products.
Both firms were also found to have labelling deficiencies. TCF Chocolates and Gifts had failed to adequately declare product names, while Shivam Agro had incorrectly declared serving information and cholesterol content on a plant-based edible oil product.
Announcing the action, FSSAI said the licences of both food business operators had been suspended with immediate effect following the serious violations identified during inspections.
The regulator has directed both firms to immediately stop all food business activities during the suspension period.
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