Mumbai's Elite Clubs Face FDA Scrutiny Over Food Safety Violations

In Mumbai, membership at prestigious clubs such as the Cricket Club of India (CCI), Willingdon Sports Club, and Juhu Gymkhana is often seen as a symbol of status and exclusivity. These venues are renowned for their fine dining experiences and rich heritage. However, a recent investigation conducted by the Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has cast a shadow over this reputation, revealing that a high-profile address does not necessarily equate to high food safety standards. In a significant enforcement action targeting elite dining establishments, the FDA has suspended the food licenses of five notable clubs in Mumbai due to serious hygiene and safety violations. This crackdown is part of a broader initiative that has subjected various restaurants, bakeries, and food outlets across Maharashtra to rigorous inspections aimed at ensuring compliance with food safety regulations. The clubs affected by the suspension of their food licenses include the Cricket Club of India, RK Juhu Gymkhana, Aparna Juhu Gymkhana, MIG Cricket Club located in Bandra East, and Willingdon Sports Club. Additionally, a food service within the Goregaon Sports Club was ordered to cease operations for lacking the necessary FSSAI registration, while another establishment received an improvement notice from the FDA.

The FDA's findings indicate that the violations at these clubs extend well beyond mere cleanliness issues. At the Cricket Club of India, inspectors discovered a significant infestation of cockroaches and flies in areas designated for food preparation and waste disposal. They also reported the presence of moldy vegetables, overripe mushrooms, expired food products, and water leaking onto food stored in cold storage. Other alarming conditions included grease and stagnant water surrounding food-contact surfaces, as well as a lack of proper separation between vegetarian and non-vegetarian food preparation areas. Food items were found stored directly on the floor, and brooms were improperly placed on kitchen counters, heightening the risk of contamination. At RK Juhu Gymkhana, inspectors noted several issues, including damaged walls and ceilings, inadequate drainage, insufficient hygiene facilities, improper food storage temperatures, and food handlers working without appropriate protective gear such as gloves, caps, or aprons. Meanwhile, Aparna Juhu Gymkhana was cited for using rusted cooking equipment and non-food-grade packaging materials, along with having flies present in the kitchen. The lack of proper segregation between raw and cooked food raised significant concerns regarding potential cross-contamination.