Toxic Chemicals Banned in Incense Sticks Used in Every Indian Home; Government Tightens Quality Norms

New Delhi: In a major step to protect public health, indoor air quality and the environment, the Government of India has introduced a new quality standard for incense sticks (agarbatti), banning the use of several hazardous chemicals commonly found in the product.

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has notified the new standard IS 19412:2025, which was formally released by Union Minister for Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, Pralhad Joshi. Under this standard, the use of certain synthetic pesticides and chemical fragrance intermediates—many of which are internationally restricted—has been prohibited in the manufacture of agarbatti.

India’s incense stick industry, valued at nearly ₹8,000 crore, touches almost every household in the country. The new regulation aims to curb the harmful effects of toxic emissions released during burning, which can negatively impact human health and indoor air quality.

Chemicals Banned

According to BIS, the prohibited substances include pesticide chemicals such as allethrin, permethrin, cypermethrin, deltamethrin and fipronil, as well as synthetic fragrance intermediates like benzyl cyanide, ethyl acrylate and diphenyl amine. These substances have been linked to potential health risks and environmental damage.

Incense sticks that comply with the new standard will carry the BIS certification mark, enabling consumers to easily identify safer and quality-assured products.

Clear Classification and Quality Parameters

The standard categorises incense sticks into machine-made, hand-rolled and traditional masala agarbatti, and lays down strict requirements related to raw materials, burning performance, fragrance quality and chemical composition. The move is expected to ensure uniformity, safety and transparency across the sector.

Boost to Exports and Traditional Artisans

India is the world’s largest producer and exporter of incense sticks, exporting products worth nearly ₹1,200 crore annually to over 150 countries, including the US, Malaysia, Nigeria, Brazil and Mexico. The government believes the new standards will enhance global market access, build consumer trust, promote ethical and sustainable manufacturing, and provide stronger support to traditional artisans.

The ministry said the initiative would not only safeguard consumers but also strengthen India’s position as a responsible global supplier of incense products.