Policy · Mobility & Logistics

Zepto faces FSSAI penal action over misleading food claims

By Startup Enthusiast · 24 September 2026

What they do

Zepto operates a quick-commerce delivery platform providing groceries and daily essentials in minutes across multiple Indian cities

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India initiated penal action against Zepto and four other e-commerce platforms over misleading food claims

The regulator flagged issues including misbranding and improper claims concerning specific food items listed on online marketplaces

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) initiated penal proceedings against Zepto alongside four additional internet retail networks.
The enforcement measures stem from suspected breaches of food safety guidelines, such as inaccurate labeling and deceptive product representations.
FSSAI targeted Zepto, Amazon, Flipkart India, Swiggy Instamart, and BigBasket regarding promotional statements tied to the edible item 'Happilo Premium Date Bites - Zesty Orange'.
The food safety watchdog intensified its supervisory campaign directed at virtual marketplaces and edible merchandise vendors over the preceding half-year.
Media requests directed toward the affected enterprises concerning the regulatory penalties went unanswered initially.

FSSAI has stepped up its oversight of online retail platforms to hold digital marketplaces accountable for product listings and claims.
The regulator has increasingly utilized social media channels to publicly communicate enforcement actions directly to consumers.

Zepto operates a rapid delivery service offering groceries, fresh produce, and household items within minutes.
The company fulfills orders through a network of localized dark stores and micro-warehouses situated across urban residential areas.
Revenue is generated through merchandise sales, delivery fees, and platform partnerships with consumer brands.
The platform utilizes technology-driven inventory management to optimize supply chain efficiency and delivery speed.

Product: A rapid-delivery app for groceries and everyday essentials.
Customers: Consumers ordering groceries and essentials online.
How it makes money: It earns from product margins, delivery fees, and order-value thresholds across its quick-commerce network.
What sets it apart: It was built as a quick-commerce native company from day one.
Operations: Operates dark-store based 10-minute delivery across multiple Indian cities.