Pune Resident Alleges Chicken Found in Veg Burger; Seeks Official Food Safety Probe

A Pune resident claims a chicken piece was found in a vegetarian burger ordered via a delivery app, prompting calls for a formal food safety investigation.

Pune | 23 February, 2026- A food safety concern has emerged in Pune after a resident from Kharadi alleged that a piece of chicken was found inside a vegetarian burger he ordered through a delivery app. Shocked by the discovery, the complainant has called for a formal investigation into the incident, highlighting potential lapses in food handling and the need to respect dietary preferences.

The resident, who is strictly vegetarian, stated that he ordered a veg burger from a popular outlet. Upon opening the package and taking a bite, he reportedly found a chicken piece in what was advertised and paid for as a vegetarian item. He described the incident as not only a breach of food labeling standards but also an emotional violation of his dietary and cultural beliefs.

While the delivery platform refunded the order, the complainant emphasized that a refund alone does not address the seriousness of the matter. He intends to approach the state food and drug authority to lodge an official complaint and ensure accountability from both the restaurant and the delivery service.

The incident has sparked reactions on social media, with users calling for stricter food preparation practices, proper segregation of vegetarian and non-vegetarian items, and stronger oversight by authorities. Many noted that such mistakes can undermine consumer trust, particularly in cities where diverse dietary habits are common.

Food safety experts explain that restaurants and delivery kitchens are required to follow protocols to prevent cross-contamination between veg and non-veg items. This includes separate storage, utensils, and thorough quality checks before dispatching orders. While accidental mix-ups can happen, experts stress that each case should be investigated to determine whether systemic lapses exist.

Consumer rights advocates have also weighed in, highlighting that wrong or contaminated food should be treated seriously, especially when dietary labels are involved. They recommend that affected consumers document their complaints and pursue redress through food safety authorities or consumer courts to ensure corrective measures are taken.

The complainant’s move to escalate the matter to the state authority reflects growing concerns about food safety in the era of online deliveries. As demand for convenience increases, stricter enforcement of food handling protocols and clear communication between restaurants, delivery platforms, and customers is essential to maintain trust.

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