The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has revoked the licence suspension order of KFC’s Devanahalli branch, allowing the popular fast-food chain to resume full operations. The outlet had been shut down since August 3 following an inspection by state health department officials.

The suspension was initially enforced after inspectors allegedly discovered the use of synthetic magnesium silicate, a substance reportedly used to purify reused cooking oil. While synthetic magnesium silicate is recognized as a permissible filtration agent under FSSAI regulations, concerns were raised regarding its use in food preparation at the outlet.

According to Section 32(1) of the Food Safety and Standards Act (FSSA), 2006, an improvement notice is supposed to be issued before a license suspension, giving the business a chance to rectify any violations. However, it was reported that KFC did not receive such a notice prior to the suspension. Following this, KFC filed an appeal on August 5, and after being closed from August 8 to August 14, the FSSAI commissioner reinstated the licence, allowing the outlet to reopen.

In response to the controversy, a KFC spokesperson stated: “KFC holds the highest respect for the laws of the land and complies with all government norms and regulations. The use of magnesium silicate as a permissible filtration agent is approved as per FSSAI notification. All KFC chicken is safe for consumption, meeting all FSSAI safety and quality standards.”

This incident is part of a broader crackdown by the Karnataka FSSAI Commissioner Srinivas K, following orders from Health Commissioner Randeep D to carry out inspections across the state. As a result of the drive, licences of several other establishments, including Nupa Technologies, Mamta Agency in BBMP South, and Vishal Bar and Restaurant in Mysuru, were also suspended.

The incident also comes on the heels of a similar case in Tamil Nadu, where the Madras High Court granted relief to KFC in July 2024, allowing the restaurant to continue operations after a licence suspension.

With the licence reinstated, KFC’s Devanahalli branch has resumed normal operations, reaffirming its commitment to food safety and regulatory compliance.