The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has recently unveiled the much-anticipated IS 18267: 2023 “Food Serving Utensils Made from Agri By-Products – Specification,” a significant step towards combating plastic pollution and fostering sustainability. This comprehensive standard sets forth guidelines for manufacturers and consumers alike, ensuring consistent quality requirements throughout the country.
The introduction of this standard brings forth numerous advantages, particularly in the realms of environmental preservation, the promotion of circular economy practices, and consumer health and safety. By embracing biodegradable agri by-product utensils, we can make notable contributions to safeguarding our environment, conserving precious natural resources, and supporting a circular economy. These utensils are devoid of harmful additives, guaranteeing the well-being of consumers. Furthermore, the implementation of this standard paves the way for economic opportunities for farmers, fostering sustainable agricultural practices and bolstering rural development.
The global market for disposable tableware has experienced a significant upsurge, driven by the escalating demand for such products worldwide. In 2020, the disposable plate market size reached USD 4.26 billion, and it is projected to grow to USD 6.73 billion by 2028, with a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 5.94% during the period from 2021 to 2028.
Within India, a multitude of large-scale manufacturers and Micro, Small & Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) have been actively engaged in the production of biodegradable cutlery. These stakeholders stand to gain immensely from the implementation of the Standard, as the demand for such products continues to rise, leading to a steady increase in the number of manufacturers entering this market.
The standard comprehensively covers various aspects, including the use of raw materials, manufacturing techniques, performance standards, and hygiene requirements for the production of biodegradable utensils. It highlights the preference for agricultural by-products such as leaves and sheaths as primary materials for creating plates, cups, bowls, and more. Moreover, the standard recommends appropriate plant and tree parts for extraction and specifies manufacturing techniques such as hot pressing, cold pressing, moulding, and stitching. It places emphasis on smooth surfaces, non-sharp edges, and strictly prohibits the use of chemicals, resins, and adhesives in the production process.
The introduction of the IS 18267: 2023 standard marks a significant milestone in the journey towards sustainable and eco-friendly practices in the food industry. By adopting biodegradable agri by-product utensils, we can collectively reduce plastic pollution, safeguard our environment, and promote a healthier, more sustainable future for generations to come.