AIIMS blacklists supplier over fungal contamination in injectables for brain swelling, eye BP - Video

A major safety lapse occurred at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS), where fungus was found in batches of crucial medical supplies, including injectables used for brain swelling, eye pressure, and intravenous fluids, according to a recent report by The New Indian Express. Following this, AIIMS terminated its contract with Pentagon Labs Limited and barred the supplier from bidding for tenders for the next two years. AIIMS had entered into a two-year agreement with Pentagon Labs in May 2024 for the supply of crystalloid solutions.

The contract came under scrutiny after multiple departments reported fungal contamination in the injectables used to treat cerebral edema, ocular hypertension, and dehydration. Despite a formal complaint in July demanding replacement of 4,800 contaminated bottles, the supplier failed to respond or take corrective action. AIIMS’s investigation confirmed repeated supply of substandard products, risking patient safety and disrupting medical services. Citing gross misconduct and violation of contract and procurement rules, AIIMS banned Pentagon Labs immediately and procured alternative supplies to ensure uninterrupted patient care.