Bengaluru, 13 August 2026: Karnataka Department of Food Safety and Drugs Administration has prohibited the manufacture, storage, transportation, distribution and sale of gutkha, pan masala containing tobacco or nicotine, and other products containing tobacco or nicotine across the state.
The department issued a notification under Section 30(2)(a) of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, read with Regulation 2.3.4 of the Food Safety and Standards (Prohibition and Restrictions on Sales) Regulations, 2011. The prohibition will remain in force across Karnataka for one year from the date of the notification, that is 10 August 2027.
What is prohibited?
The notification specifically prohibits:
- Gutkha and pan masala containing tobacco and/or nicotine.
- Products marketed separately that contain tobacco or nicotine as a final ingredient.
- Packaged or unpackaged products containing tobacco or nicotine, irrespective of the name under which they are sold.
- Products sold or distributed separately in a manner that makes it easy for consumers to mix them.
The restriction also covers gutkha and pan masala containing tobacco or nicotine that are packed in sachets, pouches, packages, containers or other forms.
Statewide Enforcement
The Food Safety Division said it is carrying out special inspection and enforcement operations across Karnataka. Food Safety Officers are conducting checks relating to the manufacture, storage, transportation, distribution and sale of prohibited tobacco and nicotine products. The department said the enforcement action is being taken in the interest of public health.
Public Asked to Report Violations
The Department of Food Safety and Drugs Administration has appealed to the public to inform the concerned authorities if they come across the manufacture, sale or distribution of prohibited tobacco and nicotine products. The department has also sought public cooperation in its efforts to build a healthy and addiction-free Karnataka.
The prohibition notification was issued by the Commissioner of Food Safety, Karnataka, and applies throughout the state.
Keywords
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