India, Oct. 19 -- As Diwali gifting peaks, a viral video showing dry fruits being chemically treated has triggered a major crackdown at Navi Mumbai's APMC market. The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on Friday sealed the premises of Ambika Dryfruit LLP at the Masala Bazaar in Vashi after footage revealed workers washing raisins in a chemical solution, adding colour and unidentified powder to enhance their appearance.

The video, which spread rapidly across social media, also showed almonds and cashews being stored carelessly in the open and even placed in a furnace-allegedly to "improve flavour." The unhygienic conditions captured in the clip prompted the FDA to intervene immediately.

Acting on the evidence, FDA officials led by Rashmi...