FSSAI Proposes Plastic-Free Packaging for Pan Masala

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has proposed a complete ban on plastic packaging for pan masala, gutka and similar products. The draft amendment to the Food Safety and Standards (Packaging) Regulations, 2018 aims to replace single-use plastic sachets with eco-friendly alternatives such as paper, paperboard, cellulose and other naturally derived materials. The move is part of a wider effort to reduce plastic waste and strengthen public health regulation.

What the Draft Amendment Proposes

The draft regulation clearly states that pan masala, gutka and related tobacco products must be packed only in non-plastic materials. It bans all forms of plastic packaging, including polyethylene, polypropylene, polyester, PVC and multilayer laminates.

The proposal also prohibits aluminium foil and metallised layers often used in sachet packaging. These restrictions will apply to both tobacco and non-tobacco variants of pan masala, making the rule broader in scope.

Specific Chemicals and Materials Restricted

FSSAI has also barred the use of specific copolymers such as vinyl acetate–maleic acid–vinyl chloride in packaging for gutka, pan masala and tobacco products. These changes have been inserted into Schedule IV of the Packaging Regulations, which defines approved packaging materials for different food categories.

Pan masala has now been added as a separate category with strict packaging rules. This strengthens the legal framework and aligns the proposal with existing Plastic Waste Management Rules.

Why This Move Is Important

The chewing tobacco and pan masala industry heavily depends on multilayer plastic sachets, which are difficult to recycle and contribute significantly to litter and environmental pollution. These products are widely consumed across India, leading to large volumes of non-biodegradable waste.

The proposal is expected to reduce plastic pollution while also tightening regulation around products already linked to serious health concerns such as oral cancer and addiction.

Important Facts for Exams

• FSSAI was established under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006.
• Gutka is a mixture of crushed areca nut, tobacco, catechu, paraffin and flavouring agents.
• Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016 regulate the use, recycling and disposal of plastic waste in India.
• Several Indian states annually renew bans on gutka and tobacco-containing pan masala under food safety laws.

State-Level Bans and Next Steps

Many states including Maharashtra, Bihar, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, Odisha, West Bengal, Kerala, Gujarat and Delhi have already banned the manufacture, sale, storage and distribution of gutka and tobacco-based pan masala. Most of these bans are renewed every year.

FSSAI has invited objections and suggestions from stakeholders within 30 days of the notification. After reviewing the feedback, the authority will finalise the amendment. If implemented, the decision could significantly reshape packaging practices in the pan masala and chewing tobacco sector while supporting both environmental and health goals.