ICAR-CIAE, Natures Bioplastics develop biodegradable milk, water films meeting BIS standards

INDIA – ICAR-CIAE Bhopal and Natures Bioplastics have developed biodegradable films for milk and water packaging that meet BIS standards, pass drop and leak tests, and cost Rs 170-175 per kilogram compared to Rs 150-160 for conventional LDPE film.

The development comes against the backdrop of the Indian Government’s drive to curb single-use plastics. 

Although biodegradable packaging materials for food have advanced, ICAR noted that many available options have struggled to preserve the shelf life of perishable products. 

A further issue has been their use in liquid food packaging, where problems linked to leakage, polymer leaching, and maintaining structural strength have limited broader application.

Meeting Standards and Passing Tests

The two film variants, made from polysaccharides, proteins, and biopolymers, were assessed in accordance with IS 15609:2005, IS 11805:2024, and ASTM standards. 

A comparative review against BIS requirements found that the developed materials met the applicable standards for milk and water packaging while also being biodegradable. 

Both films were used to make pouches filled with water and milk, which were then subjected to drop and leak testing.

Cost Considerations and Commercial Viability

Conventional three-layer LDPE film used for milk packaging is priced at Rs 150-160 (approximately US$1.60-1.70) per kilogram, compared with Rs 170-175 (approximately US$1.80-1.85) per kilogram for the developed biofilm. 

The cost could decline if production moves to commercial industrial scale. 

For dairy cooperatives and packaged water brands, the premium for biodegradable material is currently 10-15 percent.

Why This Matters for India’s Packaging Sector

India generates approximately 9.46 million tonnes of plastic waste annually, with a significant portion from single-use packaging. 

The government’s ban on selected single-use plastic items has created urgency for alternatives that perform without environmental persistence. 

Liquid food packaging has been particularly challenging because films must resist leakage, prevent microbial contamination, and maintain structural integrity. ICAR-CIAE and Natures Bioplastics have addressed all three requirements.

When Biodegradable Means Functional

A biodegradable film that leaks milk is not a solution. 

One that costs twice as much is not viable. ICAR-CIAE and Natures Bioplastics have developed a biofilm that meets BIS standards, passes drop tests, and costs only 10-15 percent more than conventional LDPE. 

For India’s dairy industry, that premium may be the price of moving from plastic pollution to circular packaging.

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