Centre Introduces Guidelines for Biodegradable Food Serving Utensils Made from Agri By-Products

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has taken a significant step towards reducing plastic pollution and promoting sustainability with the publication of a new standard, IS 18267: 2023 "Food Serving Utensils Made from Agri By-Products – Specification." This comprehensive guideline aims to ensure uniformity in quality requirements for manufacturers and consumers across the country while encouraging the use of biodegradable agri by-product utensils.

With the implementation of this standard, the advantages are extensive and far-reaching. The shift towards biodegradable agri by-product utensils contributes to environmental safety by reducing plastic waste and conserving natural resources. These utensils are free from harmful additives, ensuring consumer well-being. Moreover, the standard promotes a circular economy, creating economic opportunities for farmers and supporting sustainable agricultural practices that contribute to rural development.

The global market for disposable tableware has witnessed a remarkable surge in recent years, propelled by the growing demand for convenience. In 2020, the disposable plate market size reached USD 4.26 Billion, and it is projected to reach USD 6.73 Billion by 2028, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.94% from 2021 to 2028.

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India has witnessed a significant contribution from numerous large-scale and Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSME) level manufacturers in the production of biodegradable cutlery. These manufacturers are poised to benefit immensely from the new standard as the demand for eco-friendly products continues to rise, leading to a steady growth in the number of manufacturers involved in their production.

The newly introduced standard, IS 18267: 2023, covers various crucial aspects of biodegradable utensil production. It provides guidelines for the use of agricultural by-products, such as leaves and sheaths, as preferred materials for making plates, cups, bowls, and more. The standard recommends appropriate parts of plants and trees and outlines manufacturing techniques including hot pressing, cold pressing, moulding, and stitching. Emphasizing the importance of smooth surfaces and non-sharp edges, the standard strictly prohibits the use of chemicals, resins, and adhesives.

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By setting these comprehensive guidelines, the BIS is spearheading a movement towards sustainable alternatives to plastic tableware. The new standard serves as a roadmap for manufacturers to produce high-quality biodegradable utensils, ensuring that the benefits extend to both the environment and consumer health.

As India embraces the use of agri-by-product utensils, it strengthens its commitment to combatting plastic pollution and embracing a greener future. With the BIS leading the way, the standardization of biodegradable utensils will pave the path for a more sustainable and environmentally conscious society.

The implementation of IS 18267: 2023 marks a significant milestone in India's sustainability journey, fostering responsible consumption and production practices while contributing to the global effort to mitigate the impact of plastic pollution on our planet.

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