📷 Image: Wikimedia Commons / Gangarajubs
Food
Karnataka suspends food licences of Amazon, Swiggy, Big Basket over Datura sale
✍️ India Today
🗓 25 Aug 2026, 02:03 PM
👁 2
Karnataka's food safety department has withdrawn the food‑service licences of Amazon, Swiggy and Big Basket after finding the platforms were selling the poisonous plant Datura.
The Karnataka state food safety authority announced the suspension of food‑service licences for three major online grocery operators – Amazon, Swiggy and Big Basket. The action follows an inspection that uncovered the sale of Datura, a toxic plant known for its hallucinogenic properties, on the companies' platforms.
Under the state's Food Safety and Standards Act, any entity found distributing harmful substances in food items is liable for licence cancellation and further legal action. Officials said the discovery prompted immediate revocation to protect public health.
The three firms have been directed to cease all operations related to food delivery in Karnataka until they can demonstrate compliance with safety norms. They may appeal the decision, but the department warned that any repeat violation will attract harsher penalties.
Consumers in the state are advised to remain cautious and report any suspicious products. The move underscores Karnataka's tightening stance on online food retail and its commitment to curbing the distribution of hazardous substances.
Under the state's Food Safety and Standards Act, any entity found distributing harmful substances in food items is liable for licence cancellation and further legal action. Officials said the discovery prompted immediate revocation to protect public health.
The three firms have been directed to cease all operations related to food delivery in Karnataka until they can demonstrate compliance with safety norms. They may appeal the decision, but the department warned that any repeat violation will attract harsher penalties.
Consumers in the state are advised to remain cautious and report any suspicious products. The move underscores Karnataka's tightening stance on online food retail and its commitment to curbing the distribution of hazardous substances.