India’s hygiene inspector becomes national star

Tukaram Mundhe, a food safety inspector in Maharashtra, India, gained national recognition for aggressively enforcing hygiene standards in restaurants and food businesses.

Mundhe began inspecting establishments in May and quickly became known for shutting down even prominent locations with violations, including the Cricket Club of India in Mumbai. He publishes lists of infractions and doesn’t offer leniency, regardless of a business’s influence.

Mundhe’s actions address a widespread problem in India where foodborne illness is common due to poor sanitation in restaurants, street food stalls, and even some upscale establishments. Since taking charge of the Food and Drug Administration (FDA), his team has inspected thousands of businesses and closed hundreds for failing to meet hygiene requirements. Notable closures included the well-known K. Rustom & Co. ice cream shop and Parsi Dairy Farm.

His uncompromising approach has drawn criticism from some restaurant owners who claim they were unfairly penalized without opportunities to correct issues and have filed lawsuits. The Bombay High Court ruled in one case that while Mundhe’s work was commendable, his actions had gone too far. Despite facing conflict throughout his 21-year career, including 25 transfers from positions after receiving death threats. Mundhe remains committed to public health, stating, “Our action is in the interest of public health.

We will continue to take action against violations.”