Bhubaneswar: The Odisha Health Department recently cleared the air regarding the sale of pan masala across the state. In a new update, officials explained that the current ban only targets products that contain tobacco or nicotine. This means that pan masala products made without these harmful substances are still legal to manufacture, store, and sell in Odisha. 
Odisha Pan Masala Ban: New Rules Clarified for Sellers and Buyers


The Reason for the Clarification

The confusion started after the state government announced a strict ban on several chewable food items. This led to many questions from local shopkeepers, traders, and the general public. People were unsure if every type of pan masala was now illegal. To fix this, the Health and Family Welfare Department sent an official letter to the Commissioner of CT and GST.
The department stated clearly that if a product does not have tobacco or nicotine as an ingredient, it does not fall under the prohibition. This distinction is vital for the local economy, as it allows businesses selling tobacco-free alternatives to continue their work without fear of legal trouble.

Understanding the Ban

Earlier this month, the Odisha government took a strong stand against public health risks. They issued a notification to stop the production and sale of harmful chewable items. The ban covers several activities, including:
  • Manufacturing and processing
  • Packaging and storage
  • Transportation and distribution
  • Retail sales
This ban specifically targets gutkha and flavored or scented tobacco products. It also covers "twin packs," where tobacco and pan masala are sold in separate pouches but are meant to be mixed and consumed together. The government’s goal is to reduce the consumption of nicotine-based products, which are linked to serious health issues like oral cancer.

Impact on the Market

While tobacco-based products are now off the shelves, the market for "pure" pan masala remains open. Traders must ensure their stock strictly follows the guidelines. Authorities have warned that any product found to contain even a small amount of nicotine or tobacco will be seized, and the owners will face penalties.
This move reflects a balance between protecting public health and allowing the sale of non-tobacco food items. For now, consumers in Odisha will find that their local shops can still carry pan masala, provided it is free from the prohibited ingredients.