April 22, 2025 – The packaging industry in India has received a significant policy boost. Recently, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) officially approved the use of recycled polyethylene terephthalate (rPET) for food contact materials. This decision is regarded as a crucial milestone in India’s journey towards sustainable development, poised to reshape the packaging industry landscape and drive industries to strengthen their environmental responsibility.
FSSAI’s approval of food-grade rPET is far more than a mere regulatory adjustment; it serves as a pivotal force in transforming India’s plastic waste management and packaging strategies. From the perspective of the circular economy, this regulation has revitalized the recycling and reuse chain of PET bottles. Previously discarded PET bottles can now be recycled, purified, and repurposed for food packaging. This not only reduces the reliance on virgin plastics but also enables efficient resource circulation. In terms of environmental protection, the promotion of food-grade rPET opens up a high-value market for recycled plastics, contributing to the improvement of the recycling system and effectively alleviating the plastic pollution problem. According to AsiaMB, the production of rPET consumes less energy compared to virgin PET, significantly reducing greenhouse gas emissions and aligning with the global trend of carbon reduction. Additionally, the clear regulatory framework instills confidence in investments for recycling infrastructure and advanced cleaning technologies, spawning new business opportunities and job creation. It also enhances the competitiveness of local Indian manufacturers in the international supply chain by meeting sustainable development standards.
With the implementation of the new regulations, the industry is presented with unprecedented opportunities. There will be an explosive growth in the demand for high-quality, traceable food-grade rPET. The stringent quality control, source traceability, and ESG standards required for food-grade materials will become new thresholds for the industry. As sustainable packaging gains more attention, recycled plastic suppliers with high cleanliness, compliance, and stable quality will see a surge in value. The sustainable development goals of the entire industry have become even clearer.