Home / Health / Odisha Clarifies Pan Masala Ban: Tobacco-Free Exempt
Odisha Clarifies Pan Masala Ban: Tobacco-Free Exempt
31 Jan
Summary
- Pan masala without tobacco or nicotine is not banned in Odisha.
- Clarification follows confusion over recent prohibition of tobacco/nicotine products.
- Health risks of smokeless tobacco use are a major concern for the government.
Odisha's government has issued a crucial clarification regarding its recent prohibition, easing confusion for shopkeepers and traders. Pan masala products that do not contain tobacco or nicotine are now explicitly exempt from the state's ban.
This clarification was communicated by the health and family welfare department to the commercial tax and GST commissioner. The move brings relief to businesses that were uncertain about potential seizures of their stock.
The initial ban, notified on January 21, imposed a complete restriction on the manufacture, sale, and distribution of all food products containing tobacco or nicotine. This was driven by concerns over the severe health risks associated with smokeless tobacco consumption.
International research highlights that chewing tobacco products are carcinogenic and can lead to dependence and severe oral health issues. In Odisha, over 42% of adults reportedly use smokeless tobacco, underscoring the public health imperative behind the government's actions.
