FSSAI Introduces Guidelines for Safe Use of Recycled PET in Food Packaging

Image Source : Esterform Packaging

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued comprehensive guidelines for the acceptance of recycled Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) as Food Contact Material (FCM-rPET). The new regulations, effective from May 23, 2025, aim to ensure the safe use of recycled PET in food packaging applications while maintaining stringent quality standards.

Scope and Applicability
- The guidelines apply exclusively to the recycling process of post-consumer food-grade PET into FCM-rPET resins suitable for food packaging
- Only recycling technologies approved by FSSAI are permitted for food contact applications
- The regulations do not cover recycled PET intended for non-food-grade consumer applications

Regulatory Definitions and Material Standards
- Virgin PET (vPET) refers to PET derived from poly-condensation of ethylene glycol and terephthalic acid
- Post-consumer food-grade PET includes packaging collected from households, institutions, and distribution chains
- Recycled PET (FCM-rPET) must undergo validated decontamination to meet purity levels suitable for direct food contact

Approved Recycling Processes and Safety Measures
- Recycling methods must include a decontamination step to remove contaminants and ensure food safety
- Conventional recycling processes without decontamination are not permitted for food contact materials
- Manufacturers must comply with testing requirements such as Challenge Test, Extraction Test, and Migration Test, conducted in NABL/ILAC accredited laboratories

Compliance and Industry Impact
- Manufacturers of FCM-rPET must apply for authorization with FSSAI, providing details on facility operations, technology, and quality control measures
- Approved manufacturers will be registered on the FSSAI website and subjected to annual audits
- The guidelines align with global food safety standards, ensuring consumer protection and environmental sustainability

Future Outlook and Industry Adoption
- The implementation of FCM-rPET regulations is expected to drive innovation in sustainable packaging solutions
- Industry stakeholders anticipate increased investment in advanced recycling technologies to meet compliance requirements
- The move reinforces India’s commitment to reducing plastic waste while maintaining food safety standards

Sources: FSSAI Official Notification, Economic Times, Tax Guru, Mondaq India