Tata Starbucks moves HC to release consignment of syrups blocked by food regulator

NEW DELHI: India's food safety regulator is having Starbucks Coffee in a bit of froth. 

The Food Safety and Standard Authority of India (FSSAI) has blocked a consignment of syrups meant for the US-based coffee chain's local joint venture, prompting Tata Starbucks to approach the Bombay High Court for relief as the items rot in a Mumbai port warehouse. 

Two people with direct knowledge of the matter said the consignment blocked by the FSSAI earlier this month contained flavored syrups used for preparing beverages sold at Starbucks outlets. 

An FSSAI official said the agency has sought some clarification from Tata Starbucks on the products. 

Avani Davda, chief executive of Tata Starbucks, said the company has filed a writ petition in the high court seeking the release of its consignment. "We have been importing these products since the launch of Starbucks in India," Davda said, while terming the incident "highly unusual" as the FSSAI had previously cleared imports of products with the same composition. 

The case is scheduled for hearing on Tuesday, one of the two people cited above said. An FSSAI spokesman did not respond to a phone message seeking comment left at his office. 

"Our imports are compliant with the standards prescribed under the Food Safety and Standards Act and are safe for consumption. These products are used across the Starbucks stores in 64 countries over more than 40 years," Davda said.