Zepto, one of India’s fastest-growing quick commerce startups, is facing intense backlash following explosive allegations of food safety violations and unhygienic practices.
The controversy erupted after a former employee’s Reddit post went viral, detailing disturbing conditions at Zepto’s warehouses and unethical handling of expired goods.
The revelations have triggered widespread public outrage, regulatory action, and renewed scrutiny of the quick commerce model.
Whistleblower’s Account: “I Can’t Stay Silent Anymore”
The whistleblower, who claims to have worked at Zepto for three years, shared a detailed post on Reddit describing a workplace where speed trumped safety.
Among the most alarming claims:
- Expired products were knowingly dispatched to customers.
- Rotten fruits and vegetables were routinely packed and delivered.
- During monsoons, gutter water flooded the Pune warehouse, where employees stood for hours without shoes while packing groceries.
- Workers reportedly fell ill due to unsanitary conditions but received no medical support.
- The post also alleged systemic neglect, with store managers instructing staff to ignore expiry dates and hygiene protocols.
“People think Zepto is hygienic. It’s not. The reality is disgusting,” the former employee wrote.
Zepto Customer Complaints and Viral Videos Add Fuel
The whistleblower’s post coincided with a viral Instagram video from a customer who discovered worm-infested watermelon and a black, oozing egg in her Zepto order.
The video sparked a flood of similar complaints, including:
- Bread delivered with same-day expiry
- Fruits described as “raw or rotten”
- Customer service responses seen as dismissive or inadequate
One user commented, “Fresh means days to go, not hours left… Sending me something that’s on its final day isn’t service, it’s just low-key dumping old stock”.
Regulatory Action: Maharashtra FDA Steps In
The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has taken decisive action, suspending Zepto’s food business license for its Dharavi warehouse in Mumbai.
During inspections, officials found:
- Fungal growth on food items
- Improper cold storage
- Expired stock stored alongside fresh goods
- Unclean floors and unsafe packaging practices
Additional notices were issued to Zepto’s facilities in Bhiwandi, and further inspections are expected.
Response from Zepto: Damage Control in Progress
Zepto responded to the viral video and Reddit post with a standard statement, “We understand your concern… we take quality seriously… Please DM us your order details so we can address this promptly at Zepto speed.”
However, critics argue that the company’s response lacks transparency and accountability.
Zepto’s leadership has not issued any formal apology or detailed corrective plan so far.
*Recent Update: As of early June, the Dharavi store has successfully regained its license and is now fully operational.
*This news has been updated
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