Karnataka Cracks Down on Amazon, Swiggy Instamart, BigBasket for Selling Toxic Datura Fruits

Karnataka's Food Safety and Drug Administration (KFSDA) has suspended food licences and registrations of Amazon, Swiggy Instamart, and BigBasket over the online sale of toxic Datura fruits and seeds as food. The order was issued on August 25, 2026, by Srinivas K, Commissioner, KFSDA.

The regulatory body cited the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, and the Food Safety and Standards Rules, 2011, which prohibit the sale of Datura fruits and seeds as food products. The order states that all listed food business operators must immediately take down any Datura-related listings or advertisements marketed for food or human consumption.

The three e-commerce platforms have been ordered to submit written undertakings confirming they will not sell or advertise such products in this manner going forward. State and central food safety officers have been instructed to take swift enforcement action against any sellers found continuing the practice despite these orders.