For Mumbaikars, K. Rustom was more than just ice cream

For generations of Mumbaikars, a trip to South Mumbai often ended with an ice cream sandwich from K. Rustom & Co. Long queues spilling onto the pavement, children eagerly choosing flavours and the unmistakable sight of creamy ice cream tucked between crisp wafers made it more than just an ice cream parlour — it became a ritual.That is why the Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration’s decision to suspend the outlet’s food licence after inspectorsfound serious hygiene violations, has left loyal patrons disappointed.What happened?K. Rustom & Co. ice cream parlour, founded by Khodabaksh Rustom Irani in 1953, had its food licence suspended by the Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) after a surprise inspection uncovered serious food safety and hygiene violations.

The outlet has been directed to remain shut until the deficiencies are rectified and regulatory requirements are met.

Mumbaikars reactDhara Sanghvi, 58, resident of Breach Candy, says, "I have been visiting K Rustom since I was a child. It was kind of a tradition during the summer to go there for a drive and eat the ice cream from them. We have always loved the ice cream sandwiched between a wafer; it is unique, and they have always maintained the taste and quality of the ice cream.

But now this has come as a shock to us that it wasn't maintaining the hygiene standard."Whenever friends visited Mumbai, K. Rustom was on my list of places to take them to. The wafer ice cream wasn’t just a dessert; it was part of the Mumbai experience. Hearing about the hygiene violations is disappointing— Rajesh Mehta, 46, chartered accountant from DadarI grew up hearing stories about K. Rustom from my parents before I finally visited it in college. It represented old Bombay and its charm. I hope the authorities ensure all standards are met because people would want such an iconic place to come back only if it’s completely safe— Neha Kapoor, 31, marketing professional from AndheriAs a South Mumbai resident, I have seen generations enjoy K. Rustom. It survived changing food trends and remained relevant because of its quality and simplicity. That’s why these reports are deeply upsetting. Nostalgia is important, but hygiene can never be compromised— Farhad Mistry, 67, retired banker from Colaba