New Delhi, Aug. 12 -- A government notification issued in Karnataka has caused some confusion. Here's what it actually says, and doesn't say.

The Commissioner of Food Safety issued this order in Bengaluru on 15 June 2026. It was issued under Section 30(2)(a) of the Food Safety Act. This is read alongside Regulation 2.3.4 of related sales rules. The ban became effective on 10 August while the authorities made the official announcement on 12 August.

The notification prohibits the manufacture, storage, distribution and sale of specific items. First, it bans gutkha and pan masala containing tobacco or nicotine. These are chewing tobacco products commonly sold across India.

Second, it targets a specific workaround some sellers use. Products...