Karnataka authorities have taken action against major online shopping platforms after poisonous datura (dhatura) fruits and seeds were allegedly found listed for sale as food products.
The Karnataka Food Safety and Drugs Administration Department has suspended the food licences of Amazon, Instamart and BigBasket following complaints and an investigation into the online availability of the potentially toxic plant.
According to reports, the regulator found datura fruits and seeds being offered through e-commerce platforms, with some listings reportedly carrying FSSAI licence or registration details despite the products posing serious health risks if consumed.
Datura Found in Warehouses and Online Listings
During its investigation, the food safety department found packets containing datura fruits and seeds stored in warehouses and being made available for sale or distribution through online platforms.
The regulator also noted that some of the products were accompanied by food-related licence or registration numbers, raising concerns about how poisonous plant material had entered the food supply chain.
Representatives of the companies were called before the authority to explain the listings and the steps taken to address the issue.
Amazon reportedly did not submit a response to the regulator, while Instamart requested additional time to provide details about the action it had taken.
BigBasket informed the authority that it had discontinued online sales of the products and would ensure that any future labels clearly mention “Not for human consumption.”
Food Safety Regulator Finds Responses Unsatisfactory
Despite the responses from the companies, the regulator said the explanations were not satisfactory.
The department maintained that datura cannot legally be stored, sold or distributed as food because of the health risks associated with consuming it.
As a result, the food licences of Amazon, Instamart and BigBasket have been suspended until further orders.
The companies may have an opportunity to seek a review after a hearing, provided they submit their responses to the authority.
The regulator has also ordered the suspension of licences and registrations belonging to suppliers that provided the disputed products to the online platforms.
Platforms Ordered to Remove Datura Listings
The Karnataka food safety authority has directed the affected e-commerce platforms to immediately remove or suspend online listings and advertisements that offer datura fruits or seeds for human consumption.
The action underscores the responsibility of online marketplaces and their sellers to ensure that products marketed as food comply with food safety regulations.
Why Is Datura Dangerous?
Datura, commonly known as dhatura, is a poisonous plant. Its seeds and fruits contain toxic compounds that can cause serious health problems when consumed.
Poisoning can result in symptoms such as confusion, hallucinations, seizures and severe toxicity, and in serious cases it can be fatal.
Because of these risks, products containing datura should not be consumed as food unless specifically authorised for a legitimate, regulated purpose.
What Happens Next?
The suspension of the food licences is currently in effect until further orders. The companies can present their explanations during the review and hearing process.
Meanwhile, the regulator has directed the platforms to ensure that potentially dangerous datura products are no longer advertised or sold as food.
The case highlights growing concerns around food safety on e-commerce platforms and the need for stronger checks on products being stored, listed and delivered through online marketplaces.