The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has introduced new packaging requirements for pan masala, including restrictions on the use of plastic and certain other materials in its packaging.

These new provisions form part of the Food Safety and Standards (Packaging) Amendment Regulations, 2026, which further amend the Food Safety and Standards (Packaging) Regulations, 2018. The amendment was notified on 7 August 2026 and published in the Official Gazette on 10 August 2026. It entered into force on the day of publication.

Permitted Packaging Materials

Under the amendment, pan masala packaging may be made from paper, paper board, cellulose or other naturally derived materials, provided these materials are completely free from plastic. The notification specifically rules out the use of materials such as polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyester, polyvinyl chloride (PVC), as well as other synthetic polymers, copolymers and laminates. These naturally derived packaging materials must also be free from aluminium foil and metallised layers.

The FSSAI has also permitted tin or glass containers for pan masala packaging.

Plastic Waste Rules Apply

The amendment states that clauses (f) and (i) of rule 4(1) of the Plastic Waste Management Rules, 2016, as set out in the Environment (Protection) Act, 1986, also apply to pan masala packaging.

The amendment adds pan masala as a new entry under Schedule IV of the Food Safety and Standards (Packaging) Regulations, 2018, which lists suggested packaging materials.

Consultation and Adoption

The regulatory change follows a consultation process initiated earlier in 2026. On 28 April 2026, the FSSAI published the draft amendment, inviting objections and suggestions from stakeholders and members of the public within 60 days. After considering the responses received, the food regulator finalised and notified the amendment

The regulations were issued under section 92(2)(k) of the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, with the previous approval of the Central Government. This further tightens of packaging standards for pan masala, bringing its packaging requirements within specified plastic waste management provisions.