The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) proposed a complete shift to non-plastic packaging for pan masala, gutka, and similar products on 29 April 2026. The draft amendment concerns the Food Safety and Standards (Packaging) Regulations, 2018, and it adds pan masala as a separate entry in Schedule IV.
Packaging Materials Under the Draft
The draft permits packaging only in paper, paperboard, cellulose, or other naturally derived materials. It prohibits polyethylene, polypropylene, polyester, PVC, multilayer laminates, aluminium foil, and metallised layers.
Coverage of the Proposed Norms
The proposed rules apply to both tobacco and non-tobacco variants of pan masala and related products. FSSAI has also barred specific copolymers, including vinyl acetate–maleic acid–vinyl chloride, for gutka, pan masala, and all forms of tobacco.
Regulatory Process
FSSAI has invited objections and suggestions from stakeholders within 30 days of the notification. The draft will undergo review before finalisation of the amendment.
Packaging Regulations and Plastic Waste Rules
The Food Safety and Standards (Packaging) Regulations, 2018, lay down material standards for food packaging in India. India also regulates plastic waste through the Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016, which cover plastic use, segregation, and recycling.
Last Modified: April 30, 2026