Zepto Warehouse Sealed in Bengaluru Over Food Safety Violations
Authorities in Karnataka have sealed a major Zepto warehouse in Bengaluru due to food safety violations, including unhygienic storage and improper labeling. The action follows an inspection by the Food Safety Division.
A major warehouse operated by quick commerce firm Zepto in Bengaluru has been sealed by the Karnataka Food Safety and Drug Administration Department following an inspection that revealed multiple statutory breaches. Officials discovered non-compliant product labeling, misbranding, and unhygienic conditions for food storage and handling at the facility.
The warehouse, located in Hoskote, is a significant distribution hub for Zepto, handling food, fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG), and household items. In accordance with FSSAI provisions, the authorities immediately sealed the premises and issued a notice to Zepto, recommending further legal action.
"Strict legal action will be taken against food business operators found violating food safety regulations," a statement from the authority indicated. "The Food Safety and Drug Administration Department will continue to undertake such special inspection drives to ensure that the public has access to safe, quality and hygienic food."
Zepto stated that it is fully cooperating with the authorities and taking necessary steps to address the observations made during the inspection. This incident adds to a pattern of regulatory scrutiny for quick commerce platforms; Zepto and rival Blinkit have faced similar inspections and raids in other Indian states over hygiene and safety concerns.
The sealing of the Zepto facility occurs as the company has reportedly paused its plans for an Initial Public Offering (IPO). Zepto had previously filed draft papers for the IPO but announced a decision to hold off on the listing to pursue a pre-IPO funding round. The company's financial performance shows an increase in net loss for FY26, despite a near doubling of operating revenue.