Karnataka Acts Against Amazon, Instamart, BigBasket Over Dhatura Fruits And Seeds Sold As Food
Summarized by AI; it may make mistakes. Check important info
Summarized by AI; it may make mistakes. Check important info
The Karnataka Food Safety and Drugs Administration Department has suspended the food licences of Amazon, Instamart and BigBasket after poisonous datura fruits and seeds were found listed on their platforms for human consumption.
The action followed complaints about the sale of datura, also known as dhatura, through online platforms. The department had subsequently ordered an inquiry into the listings and the manner in which the products were being stored and sold.
Datura Products Found With Food Licence Numbers
During its investigation, the department found datura fruits and seeds displayed for sale on various e-commerce platforms. In some cases, the products carried FSSAI licence or registration numbers despite the toxic nature of datura and the health risks associated with its consumption.
Officials also found packets containing datura fruits and seeds stored in warehouses and being offered for sale or distribution through online platforms.
The regulator said storing, selling or distributing the products as food was not permissible.
What Amazon, Instamart And BigBasket Told Regulator
Representatives of the companies appeared before the authority during the proceedings.
According to the order, Amazon did not submit a response. Instamart sought additional time to submit documents detailing the action taken by the company.
BigBasket said it had stopped the online sale of the fruits. It also told the authority that future listings would carry clear labelling stating “Not for human consumption”.
The food safety authority found the responses and explanations unsatisfactory.
Suppliers And Sellers Also Face Action
The department has directed the concerned authorities to temporarily suspend the food licences issued to Amazon, Instamart and BigBasket until further orders.
The suspension can be reconsidered after the platforms are given an opportunity for a hearing and submit their responses.
The licences and registrations of suppliers and sellers providing these products to the three platforms have also been ordered to be suspended with immediate effect.
Datura Listings Ordered Removed
The order directs concerned food business operators to immediately remove or suspend all online listings and advertisements offering datura fruits or seeds as food or for human consumption.
The action puts the spotlight on the responsibility of online commerce platforms to ensure that products listed for consumers comply with food safety regulations and do not pose a risk to public health.
