The Karnataka Food Safety and Drugs Administration has taken major action regarding the online sale of toxic Datura fruits and seeds. The department has ordered the suspension of food licenses issued to Amazon, Swiggy Instamart, and BigBasket until further notice. This move follows an investigation revealing that Datura fruits and seeds were being sold online for human consumption.
Sale of Datura Fruits and Seeds
During the investigation, the authority discovered that Datura fruits and seeds were being sold on certain online platforms. Some of the packages even displayed FSSAI license or registration numbers. Viewing this as a serious matter, the department noted that Datura is toxic and its consumption poses a severe health risk.
Directive to Immediately Remove Online Listings and Advertisements
The authority has directed Amazon, Swiggy Instamart, and BigBasket to immediately remove all online listings and advertisements related to the sale of Datura for human consumption. Furthermore, they have been ordered to halt the sale, distribution, and display of the product as a food item.
No Response from Amazon
According to the department, Amazon did not provide a response regarding the matter. Meanwhile, Swiggy Instamart requested additional time to submit the necessary documents. On the other hand, BigBasket informed the authority that the sale of Datura products had been stopped. The company also stated that any future listings would clearly bear the label “NOT FOR HUMAN CONSUMPTION.”
Strict Action for Violations
The Karnataka Food Safety and Drugs Administration has also directed these platforms to take action against the licenses or registrations of vendors and companies supplying Datura-related products. The department has sought compliance reports from all concerned parties and warned that strict action will be taken if any violations of the regulations are found.
