In a landmark move to promote sustainable packaging, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has officially approved the use of recycled polyethylene terephthalate (rPET) for food packaging. Announced via the official Gazette on March 28, 2025, this regulatory shift is aimed at minimizing plastic waste and accelerating the transition toward a circular economy.

The newly issued Food Safety and Standards (Packaging) First Amendment Regulations, 2025 amends clause 4(4)(e) of the 2018 Packaging Regulations. It now clearly allows recycled PET to be used for packaging, storing, carrying, and dispensing food items, provided the material meets stringent quality and safety standards, which FSSAI will formally notify.

From Draft Proposal to Official Regulation
The approval follows an extensive public consultation initiated in May 2022, where industry stakeholders and the public were invited to share feedback. After carefully evaluating the inputs, FSSAI finalized the amendment, reflecting a strong commitment to balancing food safety and environmental responsibility.

A Game-Changer for the Packaging Sector
The approval of rPET use in food-grade applications is being welcomed by environmental advocates and industry leaders alike. Recycled PET is already widely used in markets like the European Union and the United States due to its excellent properties and substantially lower carbon footprint compared to virgin plastics. This move is expected to spur innovation in sustainable packaging, reduce dependence on virgin plastic resins, and encourage investments in India’s recycling infrastructure.

Next Steps for Industry
While the regulation provides legal authorization, its successful rollout depends on the upcoming detailed standards concerning recycling methods, contaminant limits, and material traceability. Industry players are keenly awaiting these specifications to align their production processes. Experts have emphasized the need for a robust quality assurance and monitoring system to ensure that only safe, food-grade recycled PET enters the supply chain.

Aligning with India’s Circular Economy Goals
This decision supports India’s broader environmental agenda, including commitments under the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) framework and the Plastic Waste Management Rules. Given that packaging waste is a significant part of municipal waste streams, enabling food-safe recycled plastics is a critical step toward building a more sustainable and resilient economy.

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