India boosts sustainable packaging with new rPET manufacturing approvals

INDIA –  The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India has approved six additional manufacturing units to produce food-grade recycled polyethylene terephthalate (rPET), a move set to enhance the nation’s sustainable packaging capabilities. 

The newly authorized facilities employ cutting-edge decontamination technologies, such as Super-Clean and Melt-In systems, ensuring the rPET is safe for direct food contact.

 “This is a game-changer for the industry,” said a senior official from a leading packaging firm.

“These approvals allow us to scale up production and meet the growing demand for eco-friendly packaging without compromising safety.”

The decision aligns with FSSAI’s updated guidelines, which mandate strict safety and quality standards for rPET used in food packaging. 

The move is expected to reduce reliance on virgin plastic, particularly in the beverage and fast-moving consumer goods sectors, where sustainable packaging is increasingly prioritized.

In a statement, a spokesperson for the Association of PET Recyclers (APR) Bharat, hailed the approvals.

“This expansion not only supports sustainability but also safeguards investments and creates jobs,”  he noted.

The authorized units contribute to a combined capacity of 1.5 lakh metric tonnes per annum, with more approvals anticipated soon.

A recent update highlights that the FSSAI’s actions address earlier concerns raised by manufacturers about delays in authorizations, which had threatened financial stability for some firms. 

“The swift response from FSSAI’s leadership has been commendable,” the APR Bharat spokesperson added, emphasizing the authority’s proactive engagement with stakeholders.

The approvals also support India’s regulatory mandate requiring 30% recycled content in PET bottles by FY26, driving innovation and investment in the recycling sector. 

Industry experts estimate that the rPET market could see significant growth, with global projections suggesting a rise to US$17.37 billion by 2029, fueled by advancements in recycling technology and increasing demand for sustainable materials.

Meanwhile, in other developments, the barrier paper market in India could also unlock a staggering US$4 billion in value by 2030, according to Ashraf Nathani, Managing Director of Mehali Paper Mill.

According to Nathani, the Indian consumer’s preference for fresh, hot food, coupled with environmental concerns and regulatory pressure, is creating the perfect storm for growth.

Barrier paper, which uses coatings to resist moisture, grease, oxygen, and odours, is emerging as a viable replacement for plastic and aluminium foil, particularly in the food and industrial packaging sectors.

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