Authorities in Maharashtra, a western state in India, are expanding their scrutiny beyond McDonald’s to inspect outlets of various global fast-food brands. This inspection aims to ensure that products advertised as containing real cheese are not misleadingly using cheese alternatives. The move comes after recent reports revealed the use of cheese analogues made from vegetable oil in some fast-food products.
McDonald’s largest franchisee in India, Westlife Foodworld, has faced scrutiny over its use of “real cheese” in products, prompting the removal of the word “cheese” from the names of several items in December. Now, Maharashtra’s Food and Drug Administration plans to inspect all McDonald’s outlets, as well as other major fast-food chains, for similar violations.
While specific brands targeted for inspection were not disclosed, it’s reported that outlets of Domino’s, Pizza Hut, Burger King, and KFC, among others, will be visited. Authorities have the authority to suspend the licenses of restaurants found violating food safety regulations that mislead consumers.
Westlife, which operates McDonald’s in western and southern India, has affirmed its commitment to high standards and welcomes any inspections. However, other fast-food operators, including Domino’s, Burger King, and Yum Brands’ Pizza Hut and KFC, did not respond to queries from Reuters.
Maharashtra, with its significant urban population and key cities like Mumbai, is an important market for global fast-food chains. Recent incidents, such as the suspension and subsequent reinstatement of a McDonald’s outlet’s license, have highlighted concerns over cheese labeling and ingredients.
Westlife has assured consumers that its cheese is sourced from reputable suppliers and is made from real milk. They emphasized their commitment to transparency and quality assurance.
