FDA Suspends Guru Nanak Dairy Licence After Suspected Food Poisoning in Pune

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has suspended the retail licence of Guru Nanak Dairy in Pune following complaints of suspected food poisoning linked to malai pedas sold by the establishment. The action comes after members of three families reported falling ill, with some requiring intensive care, shortly after consuming the sweets during a vehicle puja in Wadgaon Sheri.

FDA officials confirmed that the manufacturing unit has been inspected and a stop-work notice issued. Further regulatory proceedings will depend on laboratory test results, which are expected later this week. The incident has prompted a joint investigation by the FDA and Chandan Nagar police.

The affected residents stated that the pedas were the only common food item consumed by all who developed symptoms, as each family had eaten meals prepared independently at home. Among those hospitalised was 14-year-old Aarush, whose mother, Nalini Pachpute (44), was one of the first to formally raise the issue with authorities. "We had eaten food at home. The only outside food consumed that day was the peda," she said. "Someone had to take a stand. Many people hesitate to come forward, but if we know what caused the problem, we should not stay silent." Aarush required ICU admission before his condition stabilised.

Another resident, Rahul Fadtare (48), who had purchased and distributed the sweets, said three members of his family fell ill around three hours after consumption. "We all had food prepared in our respective homes. The only common thing was the peda. Around three hours later everyone started experiencing nausea and vomiting," he said. His family members also required prolonged ICU treatment.

Sandeep Veer (42), a third complainant, said his wife and nine-year-old son developed severe vomiting and diarrhoea, leading to hospitalisation. His son was admitted to the ICU but was later discharged after his condition improved. Hospital reports indicated a bacterial infection, Veer added.

Assistant Police Inspector Ganesh Jagdale of Chandan Nagar Police Station said authorities acted swiftly upon receiving the complaint. "As soon as we received the complaint, we informed the Food and Drug Administration and initiated the necessary procedure," he said. Police have recorded statements from the affected residents and sent a vomit sample for forensic examination. Preliminary medical observations suggested food poisoning, and further legal action, including possible registration of an FIR, will hinge on the FDA's laboratory findings.

Syed Imran Hashmi, Assistant Commissioner (Food) at FDA, stated that the retail licence suspension and stop-work notice to the manufacturing facility are precautionary measures pending the investigation. The incident highlights ongoing concerns about food safety standards and the regulatory framework for local dairy products. Authorities have urged consumers to report any similar symptoms promptly to help prevent larger outbreaks.