The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued a new directive mandating that pan masala products no longer be packaged in plastic materials. The regulation specifically targets the use of polyethylene, polypropylene, polyester, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), synthetic polymers, copolymers, and various laminates. Under these new guidelines, manufacturers are restricted to using only tin or glass for packaging these products.

This move is part of an ongoing effort by the regulatory body to address environmental and health concerns associated with plastic waste and the potential leaching of chemicals from plastic packaging into food products. While the directive is clear regarding the permitted materials, it represents a significant shift for the pan masala industry, which has historically relied on flexible plastic pouches for distribution due to their low cost and convenience. The mandate forces a transition toward more rigid, recyclable, or inert materials like glass and metal, which may impact production costs and retail pricing for consumers. The FSSAI has not yet detailed the specific timeline for full enforcement or the penalties for non-compliance, but the directive signals a firm stance against the use of synthetic polymers in this specific food category.