FSSAI tightens pan masala packaging norms; bans plastic, foil and synthetic laminates

India’s food regulatory authority has implemented a ban on plastic packaging for pan masala. The new regulations require the use of sustainable materials such as paper, paperboard, or other naturally sourced options, explicitly prohibiting synthetic polymers and laminates. However, the use of tin and glass containers for pan masala remains allowed. These changes will come into effect following their publication in the official gazette.