Rat Allegedly Spotted in Pizza Oven at Mumbai Domino's Outlet, Sparking Calls for Action

A video circulating on social media platform X (formerly Twitter) has raised concerns about the hygiene standards at a Domino's pizza outlet in Mumbai's Byculla area. The footage, shared by Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) leader and social activist Aslam Merchant on April 25, 2024, allegedly shows a rat running inside a pizza oven at the outlet located on Clare Road.

Merchant, who claims the video was recorded on March 18, 2024, tagged the food department in his post, urging the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to take action against the outlet for its alleged unhygienic conditions. He questioned the cleanliness standards maintained by the popular pizza chain and called for an investigation into the matter.

Why this matters: The incident highlights the importance of maintaining strict hygiene standards in food establishments, especially those operated by well-known brands. It also underscores the role of social media in bringing such issues to light and prompting action from relevant authorities.

In addition to the FDA, Merchant also tagged the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) and the Mumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), seeking their intervention in the matter. He criticized the food department for often acting swiftly against small outlets while being slow to take action against larger chains.

As of now, the food department has not issued any statement regarding the incident, and Domino's India has yet to respond to the allegations or provide an explanation on the claims made in the video. The authenticity of the video and the specific details of the incident have not been independently verified by the Free Press Journal.

"The food department is always quick to act against small outlets, but when it comes to big brands like Domino's, they are slow to take action," Merchant stated in his post, highlighting the need for equal treatment of all food establishments, regardless of their size or popularity.

The incident has sparked discussions about the importance of regular inspections and strict enforcement of food safety regulations across all restaurants and food chains. As the authorities investigate the matter, the public awaits further updates and action to ensure the highest standards of hygiene and food safety are maintained in the city's food outlets.

Key Takeaways

• Video shows rat in Domino's pizza outlet in Mumbai, raising hygiene concerns.
• AAP leader urges FDA, FSSAI, and BMC to take action against the outlet.
• Incident highlights need for strict hygiene standards in food establishments.
• Authorities yet to respond, and Domino's India has not addressed the allegations.
• Calls for equal treatment of all food outlets, regardless of size or popularity.