FMCG brands seek hygiene fix in quick commerce run dark stores
FMCG companies have raised concerns over poor hygiene and storage practices in dark stores operated by quick commerce platforms. This has increased the stakes for the packaging converters.
12 Jun 2025 | By Prabhat Prakash
The number of dark stores continues to rise, over 4,550 in FY 2024-25 and projected to be 5,000–5,500 in FY 2025-26
Packaging converters across India have been tapped by product managers of leading FMCG companies because of concerns over storage and hygiene standards in the dark stores used by quick commerce platforms. The issue is, several food brands have been highlighting instances of poor handling practices that could compromise product safety and consumer trust.
The issue has caught the attention of regulatory authorities, with the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) and the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) stepping up inspections and audits. These checks have intensified across major cities as the number of dark stores continues to rise, over 4,550 in FY25 and projected to be 5,000–5,500 in FY26.
Dark stores, essentially mini-warehouses, stock a range of products for rapid local delivery. However, brand owners argue that improper storage, particularly for temperature-sensitive or odour-prone items, poses risks. One senior executive from a frozen foods company noted that non-food items such as incense sticks were stored alongside frozen goods, leading to odour migration. "This isn’t just a backend issue—it affects the end consumer directly," the executive said.
In response, brands are pushing platforms to adhere to stringent hygiene and storage protocols. Companies like HUL, ITC, Nestle, Tata Consumer Products, PepsiCo, Amul, Parle Products, Coca-Cola, Mother Dairy, and KRBL have started launching exclusive packs for online channels to manage quality better and minimise damage during rapid delivery.
Industry stakeholders agree that while the quick commerce model is here to stay, it must evolve with a sharper focus on food safety. The call is clear: growth must be supported by robust back-end systems that protect brand integrity and consumer health.
WhatPackaging? magazine had spotlighted KK Jitha of FSSAI a year ago, when she talked about safety of consumers Jitha highlighted, the importance of clean labels, healthy nutrients, and above all, food safety packaging.
Most packaging converters adhere to compliance global standards and certification which ensures product safety. As a top mono carton converter told this correspondent, "Real safety starts with thoughtful packaging."