'Centre did submit affidavit on areca'

The Union government has filed an affidavit in the Supreme Court claiming areca nut as an injurious substance, said Additional Solicitor General Indira Jaising.

A report prepared by the National Institute of Health and Family Welfare, based on the research findings of the Mumbai-based Tata Memorial Institute, classifies areca nut as a carcinogenic substance.

The report says that like tobacco products, areca nut too can be harmful for humans, Jaising told reporters here on Sunday. She added that the report too has been submitted to the apex court, which is hearing the matter. According to Food Safety and Standard Regulations, 2011, the government should regulate the quality of eatables. The report categorises areca nut as injurious to health since it does not meet the quality parameters prescribed by the Regulations, she said.