India plans to allow recycled plastic for food packaging

“Earlier, an enabling provision was missing, which led to a complete ban on recycled plastic. With recycling technology evolving, permitting recycled plastic in packaging is a welcome step, provided it adheres to strict food safety standards,” said Pawan Agarwal, former chief executive officer of FSSAI. “While the outer layers can use recycled material, the layer directly in contact with food must be rigorously scrutinized to prevent chemical or heavy metal migration. Without clear food-grade recycling norms, industry lacked incentives to collect and process waste. Enabling safe recycled plastics in packaging gives the sector a viable pathway, aligning waste management with uncompromised public health safeguards.”