Cat droppings, pests: FSSAI suspends licences of TCF Chocolates, Shivam Agro

Inspections found pest infestations, poor sanitation, expired ingredients, inadequate food-safety records, faulty labelling, unsuitable equipment and ineffective pest-control measures at the two facilities.Multiple violations were found at premises of TCF Chocolates and Shivam Agro. (Photo: Representational Image)New Delhi,Oct 1, 2026 17:31 ISTThe Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has suspended the licences of New Delhi-based gourmet chocolate manufacturer TCF Chocolates and food manufacturing and processing firm Shivam Agro with immediate effect after inspections found multiple food safety and hygiene violations at their premises.The action against TCF Chocolates followed a consumer complaint concerning food ordered through an e-commerce platform. Shivam Agro's licence was suspended in a separate case after inspectors reported serious non-compliances at its premises.In both cases, FSSAI directed the food business operators to cease all food business activities during the suspension period.At TCF Chocolates, officials found several deficiencies related to hygiene and sanitation, including inadequate cleaning, improper waste disposal and poorly maintained food-processing areas. The inspection also reportedly found pest infestation in food-processing areas, cat droppings and uncovered drainage. Expired food colours and flavours were found on the premises, while cleaning chemicals were stored close to raw materials and food-related items, according to the inspection findings.FSSAI officials also recorded deficiencies in food-handler hygiene and protective measures, including inadequate control over jewellery worn by workers. The company failed to produce mandatory food safety records related to pest control, cleaning, medical examinations, training, calibration, laboratory testing and audits during the inspection. The company had also recorded a compliance score of 14 per cent during an earlier inspection, with officials citing the absence of required documentation. Labelling deficiencies were also noted, including inadequate declaration of the food name or product identity. The suitability of certain plastic pipes used to transfer food for food-contact applications had also not been established.In the case of Shivam Agro, inspectors reported serious deficiencies in hygiene and sanitation. Flies, garbage, stagnant sewage water and spider infestation were observed at the premises. Cleaning of floors, equipment, walls and ceilings was also found to be inadequate, according to officials.Officials also reported rodent activity and ineffective pest-control measures, raising concerns over possible contamination in food-handling areas. Food ingredients and non-food items were stored together, while some food products were reportedly kept in corridors and temporary storage areas.The inspection also found rusting and corroded equipment. Iron or ferrous tanks and vessels were being used for blending edible oil without satisfactory evidence establishing their suitability for food contact.The company's in-house laboratory was found to be non-functional, while records of periodic testing of finished food products were not produced during the inspection.Inspectors also identified labelling deficiencies, including incorrect declarations relating to serving information and cholesterol content on a plant-based edible oil.FSSAI said the licences of both food business operators had been suspended with immediate effect and directed them to cease all food business activities during the suspension period.- Ends