Karnataka Suspends Licenses of Amazon, Swiggy, BigBasket Over Toxic Datura Sales

Bengaluru, India Aug 25, 2026 ALN: The Karnataka Food Safety and Drug Administration (FSDA) has taken a significant step in safeguarding public health by suspending the food licenses of major e-commerce platforms including Amazon, Swiggy Instamart, and BigBasket. This action comes in response to the alarming discovery of toxic Datura fruits and seeds being sold online under the guise of food products. The suspension of these licenses is a critical measure aimed at preventing the sale and distribution of highly dangerous substances that can pose severe health risks to consumers.

According to an official order issued by Food Safety Commissioner K Srinivas, the FSDA has mandated that these platforms immediately remove any listings and sales of Datura products. The decision was prompted by findings from inspections conducted by food safety officials, which revealed that Datura fruits and seeds were being stored and offered for sale through these e-commerce platforms, all while using Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) registration or license numbers. This misuse of regulatory compliance raises serious concerns about the oversight and monitoring of food safety practices in the rapidly growing e-commerce sector.

Datura, commonly referred to as jimsonweed or devil’s trumpet, is notorious for its toxic properties. The entire plant, including its fruits and seeds, contains potent alkaloids that can lead to severe poisoning and, in extreme cases, death if ingested. While Datura has historical uses in certain religious rituals, ornamental gardening, and some Ayurvedic practices, its consumption as food is unequivocally dangerous. The plant's toxic components can cause a range of adverse health effects, including hallucinations, delirium, and respiratory failure, underscoring the critical need for stringent regulation and consumer education regarding its dangers.

The FSDA's action is rooted in the provisions of the Food Safety and Standards Act of 2006 and the Food Safety and Standards Rules of 2011. These laws were established to ensure the safety and quality of food products available to consumers in India. The inspection findings, which included packets of Datura fruits and seeds carrying food registration numbers, highlighted a serious lapse in compliance with these regulations. It is imperative for food safety authorities to maintain vigilance in monitoring the sale of food products, especially in the context of e-commerce, where the speed of transactions can sometimes outpace regulatory oversight.

In the aftermath of the inspections, representatives from Amazon, Swiggy Instamart, and BigBasket were summoned to appear before the adjudicating authority. Notably, Amazon did not provide a response to the notice, while Swiggy Instamart requested additional time to submit documentation detailing the actions taken in response to the notice. BigBasket, on the other hand, reported that it had ceased the sale of Datura and planned to modify the product's labeling to clearly indicate that it was "not for human consumption." Despite these responses, the FSDA deemed them unsatisfactory, citing the inherent risks associated with Datura and the need for immediate action to protect public health.

The implications of this action extend beyond just the e-commerce platforms involved. The FSDA has also initiated measures against the suppliers and sellers who provided Datura products to these platforms. This comprehensive approach underscores the accountability of all parties involved in the food supply chain, from producers to retailers. The suspension of food licenses for these suppliers and sellers is a critical step in reinforcing the message that the sale and distribution of toxic substances will not be tolerated.

As part of the ongoing regulatory process, the FSDA has directed relevant State or Central licensing authorities to take action to cancel the registrations of the organizations or vendors involved, subject to due legal process. This indicates a broader intention to strengthen food safety regulations and ensure that all entities in the food supply chain adhere to safety standards. Separate orders will be issued following the receipt of compliance reports, and the involved parties will be given an opportunity to present their arguments, reflecting a commitment to due process in regulatory enforcement.

Moreover, the FSDA's directive extends to ensuring that these platforms and food businesses refrain from selling, distributing, advertising, or displaying Datura fruits or seeds as food or for human consumption in the future. This proactive stance is crucial in preventing similar incidents and protecting consumers from potentially life-threatening products.

In conclusion, the suspension of food licenses for Amazon, Swiggy Instamart, and BigBasket serves as a stark reminder of the responsibilities that come with operating in the food sector, particularly in the context of e-commerce. With the increasing reliance on online platforms for food purchases, it is essential for regulatory bodies to maintain stringent oversight and for companies to prioritize consumer safety. The actions taken by the Karnataka FSDA not only address immediate public health concerns but also set a precedent for the enforcement of food safety regulations in the rapidly evolving digital marketplace.