Mumbai’s iconic K Rustom Ice Cream, a favourite among generations of residents and tourists for over seven decades, has been ordered to shut temporarily after the Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) found serious hygiene violations during an inspection.
The FDA suspended the licence of the popular Churchgate ice cream parlour after officials discovered rats, flies and poor sanitary conditions inside the premises. The inspection was carried out as part of an ongoing drive to check food safety standards at restaurants and eateries across Mumbai.
According to the FDA, inspectors found evidence of rodent activity, flies in food preparation areas and several lapses in cleanliness. Officials said these conditions posed a potential health risk to customers and violated food safety regulations.
Following the inspection, the authorities immediately suspended the outlet’s licence and directed the management to stop operations until all deficiencies are addressed. The parlour will be allowed to reopen only after it complies with hygiene standards and receives fresh approval from the FDA.
K Rustom Ice Cream has been one of Mumbai’s best-known dessert destinations since the early 1950s. Located near Churchgate railway station, the parlour is especially famous for its handmade ice cream sandwiches, attracting students, office-goers, tourists and families alike. News of its temporary closure has disappointed many loyal customers, with several expressing surprise on social media.
FDA officials said food businesses have a responsibility to maintain proper hygiene and ensure safe conditions for customers. They added that inspections across the city will continue and strict action will be taken against establishments that fail to meet prescribed standards.
The action against K Rustom comes amid increased monitoring of food outlets following recent complaints about hygiene and food safety. Authorities have urged restaurant owners to follow sanitation rules, maintain clean kitchens and adopt proper pest-control measures to protect public health.
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