Mumbai: Soon, food lovers who frequently order from delivery apps can expect greater assurance about the quality and hygiene of meals served, as the Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is set to begin rating restaurants and eateries listed on these platforms.
FDA to Grade Online Eateries
The new rating system will assess food outlets on parameters such as food quality, hygiene standards, safety practices, staff qualifications, purchase records, and licences. The FDA is currently in discussions with food delivery platforms and e-commerce players to implement the initiative.
Rajesh Narvekar, Commissioner of the FDA, Maharashtra, confirmed that while the initiative is still in its early stages, the department is committed to ensuring food served via online platforms is both safe and of high quality.
“We have already held discussions with a couple of e-commerce players and have requested them to display FDA ratings alongside hotels and restaurants,” said Narvekar, adding that the proposal has been received positively by major industry players.
Public Complaints Prompt Action
At present, ratings on food delivery apps are largely dependent on customer reviews, which are often limited and inconsistent. “An FDA rating will build trust in the hotels and the food being served,” said Narvekar. “It will also push restaurants to maintain higher hygiene standards.”
The move comes in response to increasing complaints about stale or incorrect food being delivered through well-known apps. To address these concerns, the FDA plans to introduce a five-star rating system for eateries that meet all key benchmarks.
5-Star Rating System Proposed
“We will award five-star ratings to those eateries that comply with all our criteria, including hygiene, food quality, staff training, procurement practices, and valid permissions,” Narvekar said. “Our goal is to raise public awareness and ensure customers ordering through apps feel safe and satisfied.”
Hotels and Resorts Also Included
The FDA’s rating initiative will also be extended beyond restaurants. Hotels and resorts across Maharashtra will soon be rated by the FDA, offering travelers a reliable benchmark while booking accommodations.
“People usually select hotels in other cities based on budget and amenities listed on websites or brochures,” said Narvekar. “With FDA ratings, guests will be able to make safer, more informed choices when planning their stays.”
Boosting Trust in Food & Tourism
The FDA hopes the dual focus on food and hospitality standards will not only improve service quality but also boost public confidence in Maharashtra’s food and tourism sectors.
