The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has sought an explanation from quick-commerce platform, BlinkIt, following a complaint from a consumer after he alleged he fell it due to consuming curd purchased through the app, sources said on Sunday. The development has surfaced amid growing scrutiny of food quality and safety standards in the rapidly expanding quick-commerce sector, where people frequently rely on online platforms for the delivery of groceries and perishable items. 

Consumer submitted written complaint to FSSAI

As per sources, the food regulator received a written complaint from a person who contracted health complications after consuming curd ordered via the BlinkIt mobile app. 

He alleged he suffered severe stomach pain and diarrhoea shortly after eating the curd and sought medical treatment thereafter. He also attached his medical prescription to the complaint submitted to the regulator, lending weight to the allegations.

Acting on the complaint, FSSAI reportedly issued a letter dated May 29 to the Chief Executive Officer of Blink Commerce Private Limited, as well as the person responsible for operational oversight. 

FSSAI has asked the company to provide a detailed explanation regarding the incident and furnish a comprehensive Action Taken Report (ATR). 

Concerns rise over food quality

Sources familiar with the development said this is not the isolated case. In recent months, FSSAI has reportedly received numerous grievances through social media platforms and direct representations concerning the alleged delivery of unhygienic, spoiled or damaged food products by sellers operating through BlinkIt’s platform. 

Notably, under the provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, e-commerce food business operators are required to ensure that food products sold through their platforms meet prescribed safety and quality standards. For the unversed, earlier this month, FSSAI has sought clarification from BlinkIt over consumer complaints pertaining to the alleged sale of poor-quality eggs on its platform. The regulator had taken suo motu cognisance of several concerns raised on social media.