Bollywood Stars Face FDA Action Over Vimal Elaichi Ads

The Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is cracking down on celebrity endorsements for products linked to banned substances, hitting major stars like Shah Rukh Khan, Ajay Devgn, and Tiger Shroff over Vimal elaichi ads. It’s a reminder that even your favorite celebs can get tangled in strict consumer protection laws.

The notices, issued on August 11 by food safety chief Tukaram Mundhe, allege the ads create an association with the Vimal Pan Masala brand, which is prohibited in Maharashtra. This isn’t just about elaichi; it’s about potentially misleading consumers.

Why the Crackdown?

• The FDA believes using the ‘VIMAL’ brand for elaichi might indirectly promote a restricted product.
• Maharashtra has a comprehensive ban on oral chewing tobacco, gutkha, pan masala, and flavored tobacco, enacted in July 2012.
• Recently, in June 2026, officers were empowered to use MCOCA against major illegal tobacco suppliers.

The actors have been instructed to stop endorsing the product and remove all related campaign materials from their social media platforms. This action shows how seriously the state takes its regulations against tobacco products.

Broader State-Wide Push

This move is part of a broader intensified crackdown on food safety and compliance across Maharashtra. The agency recently conducted statewide inspections on August 11, targeting numerous major restaurant chains.

• Inspections covered 104 outlets of major restaurant chains and delivery platforms.
• These included Domino’s, Pizza Hut, KFC, McDonald’s, Subway, Burger King, Starbucks, and Monginis.
• Results included 95 improvement notices and five license suspensions.
• Additionally, two establishments were ordered to cease operations due to hygiene and compliance lapses.

This intensified crackdown by the Maharashtra FDA means consumers can expect stricter oversight on product endorsements and food safety across the state.