Maharashtra’s Food and Drug Administration has suspended the license of a McDonald’s outlet in Ahmednagar after finding the use of cheese analogues in items like burgers and nuggets instead of real cheese during inspections based on complaints.
The FDA accused McDonald’s of violating norms by not explicitly declaring use of cheaper proprietary cheese replacements, thereby misleading customers over actual ingredients. It has ordered rectification of menus and display boards statewide.
McDonald’s Claims Only Real Cheese Used
However, McDonald’s franchise operator Hardcastle Restaurants for west and south India has responded stating only genuine, high-quality cheese is used in cheese-containing products without any substitutes or analogues.
Hardcastle underscored its strict adherence to all applicable food laws and commitment to transparency in ingredients and quality. It says its engaging with authorities and awaiting final clarifications while firmly contesting charges.
FDA May Widen Probes to Other Chains Citing the McDonald’s case, the FDA has indicated it may also investigate other food chains and quick service restaurants to ensure compliance with statutory guidelines regarding appropriate ingredient and nutritional labeling.
The agency aims safeguarding consumer interest through stringent checks even as McDonald’s hopes to convince them over its use of real cheese and not adulterants.
