India's move to tax popcorn differently based on its sugar or spice content has drawn criticism from the opposition and sparked social media outrage, with two former government economic advisers questioning the tax system introduced in 2017.

Congress has criticised the government for the absurdity of the three different tax slabs for popcorn and called for a complete overhaul to simplify the Goods and Services Tax framework. A row erupted after GST council said pre-packed and labelled ready-to-eat snacks will attract a 12 per cent tax while an 18 per cent GST will be levied if it is caramelised.

Social media memes flooded the internet after the GST Council confirmed that caramelised popcorn would attract an 18% tax.

The controversy arose after the GST Council clarified that ready-to-eat salted popcorn would attract 5% GST, while caramelised popcorn would be taxed at 18% due to added sugar.