Pan Masala Plastic Packaging Banned: FSSAI Allows Only Paper, Tin or Glass

FSSAI Bans Plastic in Pan Masala Packaging, Allows Paper, Tin and Glass

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has introduced new packaging norms for pan masala, prohibiting the use of plastic, aluminium foil and metallised layers in its packaging.

The changes were notified on August 10 through the Food Safety and Standards (Packaging) Amendment Regulations, 2026, published in the Gazette of India. The amendment adds pan masala to Schedule 4 of the Food Safety and Standards (Packaging) Regulations, 2018.

Under the new rules, pan masala can be packaged in paper, paperboard, cellulose and other naturally derived materials, provided they are completely free from plastic.

The packaging cannot contain polyethylene, polypropylene, polyester, PVC or other synthetic polymers, copolymers or laminates. The restrictions also apply to paper-based packaging that contains plastic layers.

FSSAI has additionally ruled out the use of aluminium foil and metallised layers. Therefore, even packaging with a paper exterior will not qualify if it contains such materials internally.

Tin and Glass Containers Permitted

The revised regulations also list tin and glass containers as permitted packaging options for pan masala.

Certain provisions of the Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016, will also apply to pan masala packaging under the amendment.

The new regulations came into force from the date of their publication in the Official Gazette.

Draft Rules Were Issued in April

FSSAI had first issued the draft amendment on April 28, inviting objections and suggestions from stakeholders. The draft remained open for public feedback for 60 days.

According to FSSAI, the suggestions and objections received during the consultation process were considered before the final amendment was notified.

No Ban on Pan Masala

The notification does not ban pan masala itself. It specifically regulates the materials that can be used to package the product.

Manufacturers will now have to ensure that paper, paperboard, cellulose and other naturally derived packaging contains no plastic, synthetic polymers, copolymers or laminates and is free from aluminium foil and metallised layers. Tin and glass remain among the permitted alternatives.