GST on pre-packaged goods/ food packets was levied after some states gave feedback of losing revenues they previously earned from levy of VAT on food items, a top government official said.

The decision to levy the tax, which came into effect from July 18, is not that of the Centre but of the GST Council. It was also recommended by a group of ministers comprising minister representatives of some states, said Revenue Secretary Tarun Bajaj. Pre-packed and labelled pulses, wheat, rye, oats, maize, rice, flour, suji, besan, puffed rice and curd/lassi will attract 5 per cent GST.