Karnataka Government Suspends Food Licences of Amazon, Swiggy Instamart, and BigBasket Over Dhatura Sales

Bengaluru, India Aug 25, 2026 ALN: Bengaluru: The Karnataka government has taken decisive action against major e-commerce platforms Amazon, Swiggy Instamart, and BigBasket after Dhatura fruits and seeds were discovered listed for sale online. Authorities have directed the suspension of these platforms’ food licences until further notice due to serious concerns regarding public health risks.

The immediate suspension also extends to the licences and registrations of establishments and sellers supplying Dhatura products to these e-commerce companies. All food business operators involved have been instructed to remove any listings and promotional content that offer Dhatura for food or human consumption.

Toxic Plant Sparks Food Safety Action

Dhatura, commonly referred to as “thorn apple,” is known as “Umathai” in Tamil. The Food Safety and Drug Administration (FSDA) became aware of the situation after the fruits and seeds were displayed for sale on various online platforms operating under FSSAI licences or registrations. The discovery of these listings raises significant concerns not only about the legality of such sales but also about the potential health implications for consumers.

“In accordance with the provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and the associated Rules and Regulations, the competent authorities have been directed to take necessary action for the suspension of the food licences issued to the e-commerce platforms, namely Amazon, Swiggy Instamart, and BigBasket. A compliance report must be submitted forthwith,” stated the department in a press release. This legal framework is designed to protect consumers by ensuring that food products meet safety standards and are safe for consumption.

The FSDA emphasized that the Dhatura plant possesses toxic properties, and consuming its fruits and seeds can lead to serious adverse health effects. The online sale, distribution, display, or promotion of Dhatura for food or human consumption has raised significant public health and food safety concerns. Symptoms of Dhatura poisoning can include hallucinations, delirium, increased heart rate, and even death in severe cases, underscoring the importance of stringent regulatory oversight in food safety.

Sellers Ordered To Remove Listings

Food business operators have been ordered to immediately cease all online listings and promotional activities involving Dhatura fruits and seeds. The sale or distribution of these products for food or human consumption has been prohibited moving forward. This action reflects a broader trend in food safety regulation, where online platforms are increasingly held accountable for the products they offer.

The suspension of licences for Amazon, Swiggy Instamart, and BigBasket will remain in effect until further orders are issued. Compliance reports will be reviewed, and any decision regarding the revocation of the suspension will be made after the concerned parties are given an opportunity to present their case. This process highlights the balance between regulatory enforcement and the rights of businesses to contest such actions.

“The State/Central Designated Officers and Food Safety Officers have also been instructed to take immediate action for the suspension of the licences and registrations of the establishments and sellers supplying the aforementioned products to the online platforms,” the department added. This comprehensive approach aims to eliminate the risk of toxic substances entering the food supply chain and emphasizes the government's commitment to safeguarding public health.

The government has urged the platforms and other food businesses to implement these directives promptly and comprehensively to safeguard public health and maintain food safety standards. The incident raises important questions about the responsibilities of e-commerce platforms in monitoring and regulating the products they sell. As online shopping continues to grow, the potential risks associated with unregulated sales of hazardous substances become increasingly significant.

In recent years, there has been a noticeable increase in regulatory scrutiny of online food sales, particularly in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, which saw a surge in e-commerce activity. Consumers have turned to online platforms for their grocery needs, leading to a need for enhanced oversight to prevent the sale of unsafe products. This incident serves as a reminder that while e-commerce offers convenience, it also necessitates rigorous safety measures to protect consumers.

The implications of this suspension extend beyond the immediate concern of Dhatura sales. It raises awareness about the need for better regulatory frameworks that can keep pace with the rapid evolution of online marketplaces. E-commerce companies may need to invest more in compliance measures, including better vetting of products and suppliers, to avoid similar situations in the future.

Furthermore, this incident may lead to greater public scrutiny of food safety practices in the online retail sector. Consumers may become more cautious about the products they purchase online, leading to a demand for transparency and accountability from e-commerce platforms. As a result, businesses may need to enhance their food safety protocols and ensure that they are in compliance with all regulatory requirements.

Overall, the Karnataka government's action against Amazon, Swiggy Instamart, and BigBasket highlights the critical importance of food safety in the digital age. It serves as a wake-up call for both consumers and businesses regarding the potential risks associated with online food sales and the need for stringent regulatory oversight to protect public health.