In a modification to the existing gutkha ban in force since 2013, the Odisha government has ordered a complete ban on the manufacture, storage, distribution, sale and consumption of gutka and all food products containing tobacco and nicotine.
The latest order will apply to all tobacco- and nicotine-containing products such as gutka, pan masala, zarda, khaini and others. However, cigarettes and bidis are not on the list.
The modified gutka ban seeks to remove ambiguities, ensure legal clarity, and enable uniform implementation across the state. It reiterates that tobacco and nicotine cannot be used as ingredients in any food product and that violations will attract strict penal action under applicable laws, said an order issued by the state health and family welfare department.
The prohibition extends to all food products in the form of gutka, pan masala, flavoured or scented food products or chewable food products by whatever name called, whether packaged or unpackaged. The ban also covers products sold as one item but packaged and sold separately in a manner that allows consumers to mix them easily.
Odisha’s director of public health, Nilakantha Mishra, said traders used to bypass the earlier 2013 order, prompting the issuance of the new regulation to prevent the sale of tobacco- and nicotine-containing products.
“Multiple agencies including police, food safety staffs and tobacco control staffs will implement the enforcement of the latest order. Those who would violet the order will face strict penal action as per food safety law,” said Mishra.
The health department has asked all enforcement authorities to ensure strict compliance, reinforcing the government’s sustained efforts towards tobacco control, cancer prevention, and safeguarding public health, particularly among youth and vulnerable populations.
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The order reiterates that tobacco and nicotine are not permitted as ingredients in any food products under food safety regulations. Any violation will invite strict penal action, including seizure of products, cancellation of licences, and prosecution as per applicable laws, officials said.
The government said special drives will be conducted to curb the illegal sale and circulation of banned products.
