The Lucknow-based Indian Institute of Toxicology Research has said that no leachability study has been carried out with respect to composition of gutkha, which is packed in sachets to assess the safety and toxicity.

The information provided by Indian Institute of Toxicology Research was in response to a request by Department of Chemicals and Petrochemicals (DCPC) in this regard for a proposed ban on use of plastic material in the sachets of gutkha, tobacco and pan masalas following the Supreme Court?s direction in this regard.

The DCPC had sought information from industry bodies and several institutes as was asked by the Solicitor General of India in reference to the Ankur Gutkha versus Indian Asthma Care Society and others case in the Supreme Court.

According to the DCPC, it had sought from the Indian Institute of Toxicology Research information on the toxicity levels of packaging material used in sachets of gutkha, pan masala, etc.

"As per the information submitted by Indian Institute of Toxicology Research, no leachability studies have been carried out with respect to composition of gutkha, which is packed in sachets to assess the safety and toxicity," the DCPC said.