Tukaram Mundhe-led FDA suspends iconic Cafe Mondegar licence

Mumbai's renowned Cafe Mondegar has had its food license suspended following an inspection by the Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The authority discovered numerous food safety and hygiene violations during an inspection at Metro House in Colaba on September 12. FDA Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe is spearheading an intensified enforcement campaign aimed at ensuring food safety ahead of the festive season.

The FDA found issues with food storage, preparation, and hygiene at Cafe Mondegar. Hot food temperatures were not maintained above 60°C, while cold storage was not kept below 5°C. The inspection also revealed improper thawing of food and inadequate rapid cooling of cooked items. The site had inadequate drainage near the food preparation area, increasing the risk of cross-contamination.

Additionally, equipment was not being properly cleaned and sanitized, and dampness had damaged parts of the flooring. This suspension joins four other eateries, including Maharashtra Biryani Centre, Tribhuvan Dairy Farm, and Mahavir Cashew & Foods Pvt Ltd, whose licenses have also been suspended for similar violations. Mundhe's aggressive food safety drive across Maharashtra has drawn widespread attention, making him a household name and a prominent public figure in the state.

Recently, he inspected 38 food establishments in Greater Mumbai, seizing 4,138.7kg of dairy products and sweets, and 30 litres of milk, valued at approximately Rs 15.58 lakh.