Tukaram Mundhe Flags Altered Expiry Dates, Nutrition Labels As Major Food Safety Concern
Mundhe flags altered food labels as a consumer trust violation.
Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe has described the alleged manipulation of expiry dates and nutrition labels on food products as a breach of public trust. His remarks came after authorities uncovered an alleged operation at a warehouse in Navi Mumbai where manufacturing dates, expiry dates and nutritional information on products intended for export were reportedly removed and replaced.
In a post on X, Mundhe highlighted the importance of accurate information on food packaging and noted that expiry dates and nutrition labels represent commitments made to consumers. The raid reportedly uncovered nearly 5,000 cartons of products belonging to major brands, including PepsiCo, Nestle, Coca-Cola and Hindustan Unilever. The products included Lay's, Kurkure, Maggi Masala Noodles, Knorr Mushroom Soup, Hellmann's Mayonnaise, Thums Up and Limca.
According to officials, several packets and cans had their original dates removed, with authorities reportedly finding chemicals that were allegedly used for the purpose. Machines believed to have been used to print and apply replacement information were also recovered from the premises. Investigators are examining how the alleged operation was conducted and whether the altered products were being prepared for shipment outside India.
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The investigation has also raised concerns over allegedly manipulated nutritional information. One Kurkure packet reportedly carried a bilingual English-French label containing changes to ingredient quantities, calorie information and serving-size details. Authorities also found Maggi cartons carrying labels identifying the products as being made in India for export. Mundhe also noted that some packages allegedly carried a future manufacturing date of October 2, 2026.
The alleged irregularities extend beyond the issue of expiry dates because changes to nutritional and ingredient information can affect how consumers assess the products they purchase or consume. Mundhe has framed the matter as more than a technical breach of food regulations, arguing that deliberately altering information provided on packaging undermines consumer confidence and the integrity of the food-supply system.
The authorities have not immediately disclosed the intended destination countries for the products, although Mundhe indicated that the stock found at the Navi Mumbai warehouse was meant for export. The investigation is continuing to establish the full scope of the alleged operation, identify those responsible and determine whether further regulatory or legal action is warranted.
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