Karnataka suspends food licences of Amazon, Instamart, BigBasket for selling toxic datura

The Karnataka Food Safety and Drugs Administration has temporarily suspended the food licences of e-commerce platforms Amazon, Instamart and BigBasket for listing and selling datura (dhatura) fruits and seeds for human consumption. The regulatory action follows an inquiry initiated after complaints about the availability of the poisonous plant products on these quick-commerce platforms.

Datura is a plant known for its toxic properties. Its fruits and seeds contain alkaloids such as scopolamine, hyoscyamine and atropine, which can cause severe poisoning, hallucinations, delirium, and even death if consumed. The sale of datura for food purposes is prohibited under Indian food safety regulations, as it poses a serious risk to public health.

During the investigation, the department found that datura fruits and seeds were being displayed for sale on multiple online platforms. In some cases, the products carried FSSAI licence or registration numbers, despite being toxic and unfit for human consumption. Packets containing datura were stored in warehouses and offered for sale or distribution through these online marketplaces, the department's order noted.

Representatives of the companies appeared before the authority during the inquiry. According to the order, Amazon did not submit a formal response to the allegations. Instamart requested additional time to provide documents regarding the measures it had taken. BigBasket, in its reply, stated that it had stopped the online sale of datura fruits and seeds and assured that it would correct the labelling to clearly state “Not for human consumption” in the future.

The regulator, however, found these responses and explanations unsatisfactory. It held that storing, selling or distributing datura products as food was impermissible under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and related rules. The department has directed the suspension of food licences issued to Amazon, Instamart and BigBasket until further orders. The suspension may be lifted only after a hearing, provided the platforms submit a satisfactory response to the department.

In addition, the licences and registrations of suppliers and sellers who provided datura products to these online platforms have been ordered to be suspended with immediate effect. The order also directs all concerned food business operators to immediately remove or suspend all online listings and advertisements offering datura fruits or seeds for food or human consumption.

This action is part of a broader effort by state food safety regulators to monitor and control the sale of harmful substances through e-commerce channels. With the rapid growth of quick-commerce platforms, ensuring compliance with food safety standards is crucial to protect consumer health. The Karnataka authorities have signaled that strict action will be taken against any violation of the law, particularly when public safety is at stake.

Consumers are advised not to purchase or consume datura products and to report any such listings to the food safety department. The suspension of these licences serves as a reminder that online platforms are equally accountable under India's food safety regulations, and that state authorities are actively enforcing these rules.