Maharashtra Closes Domino's and Pizza Hut Outlets Over Hygiene

Health regulators in Maharashtra have taken disciplinary action against top fast-food chains following workplace inspections that revealed significant hygiene and safety breaches. According to reports from Business Recorder, state officials suspended operating licenses for four Domino's Pizza locations along with a Pizza Hut branch.

Detailed observations shared by the Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration highlighted severe compliance issues at the affected premises. Inspectors documented insect infestations and heavy grease accumulation inside pizza preparation machinery at the Domino's locations. Meanwhile, the Pizza Hut outlet faced administrative action after officials discovered multiple food items stored without required expiration dates.

Responses from corporate representatives remain minimal following the regulatory enforcement. Jubilant FoodWorks, the master franchisee managing Domino's operations within India, declined to provide comments regarding the suspensions. Similarly, Sapphire Foods, which handles Pizza Hut outlets, along with parent corporations Yum Brands and Domino's Pizza Inc., did not immediately respond to inquiries.

The enforcement effort in Maharashtra reflects an expanding crackdown led by India's national food regulators against major consumer brands. Federal watchdogs have recently intensified scrutiny over labeling violations by major firms like PepsiCo and Diageo, while revoking licenses for numerous local food businesses over inadequate sanitary conditions.

Spearheading the local campaign is Tukaram Mundhe, Maharashtra's food safety chief. His unannounced inspections and willingness to shutter non-compliant fast-food outlets have drawn widespread attention, turning the official into a popular figure across social media platforms.