S. Samuel, M.D., Harrisons Malayalam ... vs Union Of India And Ors

The Supreme Court upheld the constitutional validity of the Tamil Nadu Scheduled Articles (Prescription of Standards) Order, 1977, affirming that 'tea' falls within the definition of 'foodstuffs' as per sub-clause (v) of clause (a) of Section 2 of the Essential Commodities Act, 1955. The Court emphasized that the Essential Commodities Act aims to control the production, supply, and distribution of essential commodities for public interest. The appeal was dismissed, confirming the inclusion of tea as an essential commodity under the Act.