In a major action against the online sale of poisonous food products, the Karnataka Food Safety and Drugs Administration Department has temporarily suspended the food licences of Amazon, Instamart and BigBasket for listing datura (dhatura) fruits and seeds for human consumption. Want to know what Datura is? Read on to know more.
What Is Datura?
Datura, commonly known as dhatura, is a poisonous flowering plant belonging to the Datura genus. Its fruits and seeds contain harmful compounds that can affect the nervous system and cause serious poisoning if consumed. The plant is sometimes found growing as a weed in parts of India and is also associated with certain traditional and religious practices.
However, datura fruits and seeds are not safe for consumption, and ingesting them can lead to symptoms such as confusion, hallucinations, rapid heartbeat, seizures and, in severe cases, life-threatening complications.
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Karnataka Suspends Amazon, Instamart & BigBasket Food Licences
According to reports by NDTV, the action follows complaints received by the department regarding the sale of datura products on these platforms. The authority had subsequently ordered an investigation into their online listings and sale. During its inquiry, the department found that datura fruits and seeds were being offered for sale on multiple e-commerce platforms, in some cases carrying FSSAI licence or registration numbers. Authorities noted that the products are toxic and could pose a serious risk to human health if consumed.
The investigation also found packets of datura fruits and seeds bearing food licence or registration details. The products were reportedly stored in warehouses before being offered for sale or distribution through online platforms.
Representatives of the companies appeared before the food safety authority in connection with the matter. According to the order, Amazon did not submit a response, while Instamart requested additional time to provide documents detailing the action it had taken. BigBasket, meanwhile, said it had stopped the online sale of the fruits and would ensure that future labelling clearly states “Not for human consumption”.
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Food Business Operators Advised To Remove Listing Of Datura Fruits Or Seeds
However, the regulator found the responses and explanations unsatisfactory. It stated that storing, selling or distributing datura products as food was not permissible. As a result, the department has directed the concerned authorities to temporarily suspend the food licences issued to Amazon, Instamart and BigBasket until further orders. The suspensions can be reconsidered after a hearing, provided the platforms submit their responses to the authority. The regulator has also ordered the immediate suspension of licences and registrations of suppliers and sellers providing these products to the affected platforms.
In addition, the food safety department has directed the concerned food business operators to immediately remove or suspend all online listings and advertisements offering datura fruits or seeds for food or human consumption.
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FAQs
Is Datura illegal in India?
Datura is not completely illegal to possess or grow in India, but its sale, distribution, and commercial use are strictly regulated under the Drugs and Cosmetics Act.