FDA cracks whip after ban, seizes scented supari

After a statewide ban on flavoured tobacco and betel nut, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) authorities swooped down on store houses. This was the first crackdown since the ban was imposed on June 20.

“We have seized products worth up to Rs1,75,000 and weighing up to 72 kgs from store houses in Dahisar East. They were being sold under the brand name Chandan Mukhwaas manufactured by STC India Pvt Ltd,” said Suresh Deshmukh, joint commissioner (food), FDA on Tuesday.
Food safety officers will book those found manufacturing or selling the banned products under sections 324 and 328 of the Indian Penal Code.
“Until last year, we booked offenders for violating Food Safety and Standards Act, but now we will also book them under the relevant section of IPC,” said Suresh Deshmukh, joint commissioner, FDA. “We want to send a strong message that selling these banned products will land the offenders in prison for up to 10 years.”
On Tuesday, FDA officials interacted with the members of Pan Bidi Association asking them to stop selling the banned products. The officials said the FDA is going to file a caveat in the Bombay high court. “In the case manufacturers of scented or flavoured tobacco and betel nut move the HC against the imposed ban, the state’s plea will be heard before passing any order,” said Deshmukh.