The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has suspended the manufacturing license of Rehaan Healthcare with immediate effect after an inspection has identified major and critical non-compliances at its health supplements and nutraceutical manufacturing unit.
The inspection has found that the unit has been manufacturing digestive syrup, multivitamin syrup and other syrup-based food products. The facility has received an overall compliance score of just 12%, placing it in the non-compliance category and indicating serious failures in adhering to existing food safety regulations.
FSSAI has reported that the manufacturing premises have been extremely unhygienic and disorganised. Sediments of filth and sludge have accumulated under manufacturing tanks, while poor housekeeping and improper storage of raw materials have created a serious risk of cross-contamination.
The authority has also observed major deficiencies in infrastructure and facilities, including inadequate storage arrangements, insufficient workspace, poor ventilation and lighting, damaged infrastructure, pest infestation, and the absence of a valid drinking water test report.
According to FSSAI, the unit has been manufacturing health supplements and nutraceuticals, a high-risk category of food consumed by children and other vulnerable groups. The authority has stated that the unhygienic conditions and failure of food safety controls have posed a serious and imminent threat to public health.
The inspection has further revealed the presence of spider webs, mould growth, flies, insects and exposed food waste within the manufacturing area, significantly increasing the risk of product contamination.
FSSAI has directed the Food Business Operator (FBO) to immediately cease all food business activities until all deficiencies have been rectified and compliance has been verified by the competent authority. The authority has also stated that any violation of the suspension order shall invite appropriate legal action under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
