CAMPCO Urges Maharashtra Chief Minister to Review Flavoured Supari Ban for Local Economic Relief

The Central Arecanut and Cocoa Marketing and Processing Co-operative Limited (CAMPCO) has reached out to Maharashtra's Chief Minister, Devendra Fadnavis. They have requested a reassessment of the ban on flavoured supari products, which has been in place since 2013. According to officials, this appeal was made on Tuesday.

CAMPCO president A Kishore Kumar Kodgi stressed that their flavoured supari products adhere to the Food Safety and Standards Act. He clarified that these products are different from tobacco, gutka, or pan masala. Despite being legally produced and sold elsewhere in India, the ban has posed significant challenges for farmers, traders, and small businesses.

Regulatory Compliance and Cultural Significance

The cooperative highlighted the distinct differences between flavoured supari and pan masala. Flavoured supari does not contain lime, catechu, or tobacco and meets all regulatory standards. CAMPCO has also suggested guidelines for regulating flavoured supari. These include compliance with the Food Safety and Standards Act and banning ingredients linked to pan masala or gutka, such as tobacco or nicotine.

Additionally, CAMPCO proposed regulating artificial sweeteners within permissible limits. The cooperative emphasised the cultural and economic significance of arecanut in India. This is particularly important for rural communities that depend on its cultivation.

Impact on Maharashtra's Arecanut Production

Maharashtra cultivates arecanut over more than 3,000 hectares, producing 5,000 metric tonnes annually. The ban has adversely impacted this production. CAMPCO's letter expressed confidence in the chief minister’s leadership and support for the farming community.

Kodgi reiterated CAMPCO’s dedication to ensuring safe and regulated practices for arecanut products. The cooperative remains committed to addressing the concerns of those affected by the ban while promoting compliance with safety standards.