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FDA officials seize raw tobacco, hookah products worth Rs 31 crore from Pune manufacturing unit

The latest action comes after FDA officials raided a warehouse in Thane’s Bhiwandi on December 30, 2025, and seized banned hookah products worth Rs 19.45 crore.

2 min readPuneJan 6, 2026 03:42 PM IST

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As per a report from analysts, the samples seized tested positive for nicotine, violating a prohibitory order issued by the government on July 16, 2025, officials said. (File photo)

Food and Drug Administration (FDA) officials in Pune allegedly seized raw tobacco and finished products worth Rs 31.67 crore, including scented tobacco and shisha flavours used in hookah, from a Maval-based manufacturing facility in a 24-hour operation that began on Friday. All the products are banned under the Food Safety and Standards Act.

FDA officials said a case was subsequently registered against the Director of Soex India Private Limited at Takve Budruk in Maval. The company’s premises were also sealed.

The operation was part of the State Food and Drug Administration Minister Narhari Zirwal’s zero-tolerance action against chemically ripened fruits and those involved in the illegal production and sale of banned substances like gutka.

As per a report from analysts, the samples seized tested positive for nicotine, violating a prohibitory order issued by the government on July 16, 2025, officials said. The products were found to be hazardous to human health, and its samples were sent for further testing.

The latest action comes after FDA officials raided the warehouse of M/s High Street Impex LLP in the Dapode area of Thane’s Bhiwandi on December 30, 2025, and seized banned hookah products worth Rs 19.45 crore. Digambar Bhogwade, Joint Commissioner (Food), FDA, said a case was subsequently registered.

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