SUMMARY
- The Indian government is considering action against quick commerce platforms for not displaying product expiration dates.
- CCPA is investigating complaints from consumers regarding products nearing expiration on platforms like Blinkit & Zepto.
- FSSAI has increased audits of dark stores for product quality and sanitation amid rising complaints.
Following consumer complaints, the Center is allegedly going to take action against rapid commerce platforms for failing to provide important information, such as expiration and best-before dates, for groceries and other everyday necessities that are sold on their platforms.
Product photos and descriptions from Instamart, Blinkit, and Zepto do not display the best-before dates. Customers are left with little options when they receive a large number of orders close to their best before or expiry date.
According to the ET, the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA), which is housed under the Consumer Affairs Ministry, is investigating the situation and is anticipated to take action shortly.
An official stated, “We are looking at the complaints we have received through the National Consumer Helpline (NCH) and segregating them.”
In July, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) increased the number of surprise audits and spot checks it conducted on large fast commerce companies’ dark stores, especially for packaged foods, in response to an increase in complaints regarding product quality and sanitation.
The quick commerce market in India is experiencing rapid growth, currently valued at $3.34 billion in 2024 and projected to reach $9.95 billion by 2029. User penetration is expected to rise from 1.8% in 2024 to 4.0% by 2029, driven by increasing smartphone adoption, a young and tech-savvy population, and busy lifestyles.
Indian startups like Blinkit, Zepto, Swiggy Instamart, and Dunzo are gaining traction, while major players like Flipkart are also entering the market. Furthermore, companies are focusing on sustainable practices, such as using electric vehicles for deliveries and diversifying their product offerings, indicating a promising future for the sector.
