The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) on April 28, 2026, notified the Draft Food Safety and Standards (Packaging) Amendment Regulations, 2026, further to amend the Food Safety and Standards (Packaging) Regulations, 2018.
The following has been stated: -
•The amendment to the Food Safety and Standards (Packaging) Regulations, 2018 adds new packaging rules for pan masala after Sl. No. 10 in Schedule IV.
•It mandates the use of paper, paperboard, cellulose, or other natural materials that are completely free from plastic, synthetic polymers, and aluminium or metallized layers.
•Tin or glass containers are also permitted as safe packaging alternatives.
•It incorporates provisions from the Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016, banning plastic sachets for storing or selling gutkha, tobacco, and pan masala.
•Overall, the amendment strictly prohibits any form of plastic packaging for these products to ensure safer and environmentally friendly practices.
Objections or suggestions may be submitted within 30 days.
The detailed notification is given in the document below.
[Notification No.: RCD-09002/1/2026-Regulatory -FSSAI]
