FSSAI Licence Suspended: The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has taken strict action regarding violations of food safety and quality standards. The license of M/s Paradise Distilleries Pvt. Ltd.—the manufacturer of ‘AAA Blues Pure Grain Vodka’ and ‘AAA Blues Pure Grain Whisky’ in Himachal Pradesh’s Sirmaur district—has been suspended for 15 days with immediate effect.
An FSSAI team conducted a surprise inspection of the distillery premises, during which several serious and critical deficiencies were uncovered within the production unit. The inspection revealed the use of expired flavors and colors, thick layers of grease and dust on the bottle rinser, broken glass fragments, and significant lapses in cleanliness and hygiene across the facility.
The FSSAI has directed the company to immediately halt all food and beverage production activities during the suspension period and to rectify the identified deficiencies within the stipulated timeframe.
‘AAA Blues Pure’: The Company’s Flagship Brand
Based in the Sirmaur district of Himachal Pradesh, M/s Paradise Distilleries Pvt. Ltd. manufactures beverages and supplies industrial alcohol to the B2B market. ‘AAA Blues Pure’ is among the company’s key liquor brands.
According to data from the Himachal Pradesh Excise Department, the brand portfolio includes products such as ‘AAA Blues Pure Grain Vodka’ and ‘AAA Blues Pure Grain Whisky’. Additionally, the company manufactures and distributes industrial products like denatured ethanol, ethyl alcohol, and rectified spirit.
Major Deficiencies Found During Inspection
The FSSAI inspection team discovered several serious lapses related to food safety, hygiene, and operations at the distillery premises. Key findings included:
The use of expired flavors and colors in the manufacture of alcoholic beverages.
The blending tank was not properly sealed.
Thick layers of grease and dust were found on the bottle-cleaning rinser.
Broken glass fragments were found on the premises, and no proper glass management policy was in place. Despite notices from the Central Licensing Authority, the mandatory changes to liquor product labels had not been made.
Defective door fittings, inadequate lighting, and insufficient workspace were observed.
Paint and plaster were peeling off the walls.
Deficiencies were found in packaging arrangements and personal hygiene standards.
Pest control measures were unsatisfactory.
Records regarding employee medical examinations and vaccinations were unavailable.
There was also a lack of adequate compliance with regulations concerning preventive maintenance, customer complaint handling, and regular food safety audits.
License suspended for 15 days
In view of the serious deficiencies revealed during the inspection, the FSSAI has suspended the license of Paradise Distilleries Private Limited for 15 days, effective immediately. The company has been directed to halt all related food and beverage production activities during this period and to rectify the identified deficiencies.
Under what circumstances can action be taken against an FSSAI license?
The FSSAI may take action—such as suspension or cancellation—against a license if violations of food safety regulations are found. Serious issues such as adulteration, production of unsafe food, failure to cooperate during inspections, or conducting food-related activities beyond the scope of the license can also serve as grounds for action.
Additionally, business operators are required to pay prescribed fees and ensure necessary compliance with regulations; failure to do so can also lead to action against the license.
Opportunity to respond before license cancellation
In the process of license cancellation, the concerned business operator is typically given an opportunity to present their case via a notice. The operator can submit their explanation and necessary documents. If the response is found unsatisfactory, the competent authority may proceed with further action.
If a license is suspended or cancelled, the concerned food business must cease operations in accordance with the order. Continuing food business operations without a valid license attracts penal action under the law. Right to Appeal Against Action
If a food business operator feels that the action taken against them is unjustified, they may file an appeal in accordance with the prescribed legal procedure. It is essential to adhere to the provisions and timelines specified in the relevant order for this purpose.
