The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has implemented stringent new regulations prohibiting the use of plastic and aluminium foil in the packaging of pan masala products. These new rules, formalised through the Food Safety and Standards (Packaging) Amendment Regulations, 2026, were published in the Gazette of India on August 10, 2026, and came into force immediately.
New Packaging Standards for Pan Masala
Under the revised framework, manufacturers are now restricted to using only paper, paperboard, cellulose, tin, or glass containers for pan masala. The prohibition is comprehensive, specifically ruling out all forms of plastic, including polyethylene, polypropylene, polyester, polyvinyl chloride, and other synthetic polymers or laminates. This also extends to metallised layers, meaning even paper-based packaging with internal plastic or foil linings is no longer compliant.
The amendment adds pan masala as a new entry under Schedule 4 of the Food Safety and Standards (Packaging) Regulations, 2018, which outlines recommended packaging materials. Furthermore, relevant provisions of the Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016, will now apply to pan masala packaging, reinforcing the shift towards more sustainable practices.
Focus on Environmental Responsibility
It is important to note that these new regulations specifically target packaging materials and do not constitute a ban on pan masala as a product. The FSSAI's focus is narrowly on transitioning the product's packaging away from plastic-based materials towards more environmentally suitable alternatives. This move aligns with broader efforts to reduce plastic waste and promote sustainable consumption.
The journey to these new rules began on April 28, 2026, when FSSAI published a draft of the proposed amendment, inviting public feedback for 60 days. Suggestions and objections received during this period were reviewed and incorporated before the final version was issued with prior approval from the Central Government.