Karnataka FDA Suspends Food Licences of Amazon Instamart and BigBasket

The Karnataka Food Safety and Drugs Administration Department has taken action against three major online platforms after finding toxic datura fruits and seeds being offered as food products. The food licences of Amazon, Swiggy Instamart and BigBasket have been suspended until further orders.

The department has also directed the platforms to immediately remove listings and advertisements that offer datura for human consumption. The order extends to stopping its sale and distribution as a food item.

The issue came to light during an investigation following complaints about the online sale of the products. Officials found that packets of datura fruits and seeds were being offered through online platforms, with some carrying food licence or registration details.

Why the FDA acted

Datura is a poisonous plant and consuming its fruits or seeds can pose serious health risks. The Karnataka FDA has made it clear that storing, selling or distributing these products as food is not permitted.

The action is not limited to the three platforms. The department has also ordered action against suppliers and sellers connected with the products, including suspension of their relevant licences and registrations.

Companies asked to explain

Representatives of the companies appeared before the department during the proceedings. Amazon did not submit a response, while Swiggy Instamart requested additional time to provide documents relating to the steps it had taken.

BigBasket told the authorities that it had stopped the sale of the products. The company also indicated that such items would carry a clear warning stating that they are not meant for human consumption. However, the department found the explanations unsatisfactory.

Listings must be removed

The FDA has instructed the concerned businesses to take down all online listings and advertisements offering datura fruits or seeds as food. They have also been directed to stop their sale and distribution for human consumption.

The companies now have to submit compliance reports detailing the action taken. The suspension of their food licences can be reconsidered only after the department examines their responses and takes a further decision.

The development has also put the spotlight on how food products and other potentially hazardous items are screened before appearing on e commerce and quick commerce platforms. For consumers, the case is another reminder that a product appearing on a familiar shopping platform does not automatically mean it is approved or safe for consumption.