Restaurant Not Liable for Raw Materials Quality When Bought Sealed Pack from Licensed Manufacturer

The Allahabad High Court ruled that a restaurant cannot be held liable for substandard raw materials purchased in sealed packaging from a registered manufacturer with a proper invoice.

The case involved turmeric powder from Goldiee Masala, contaminated with lead chromate.

The Court held that liability rests with the manufacturer or distributor, not the restaurant unless the seal or invoice is disputed.

Quashing proceedings against the applicants, the Court affirmed defences under Section 80 of the Food Safety Act, allowing action against the manufacturer for supplying unsafe products despite the guaranteed quality.