BIS notifies standard for utensils made of Agri by-products
In a bid to reduce the use of disposable plastic cutlery, the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) has published a standard for utensils made from agricultural products such as papers and wrappers for food consumption. This will enable the reduction of plastic pollution and the promotion of sustainability.
The standard provides comprehensive guidance to manufacturers and consumers, ensuring uniformity in quality requirements across the country.
The standard covers various aspects, including raw materials, manufacturing techniques, performance and hygiene requirements for the production of biodegradable utensils. The standard recommends suitable parts of plants and trees and provides manufacturing techniques such as hot pressing, cold pressing, molding and stitching. It also emphasizes smooth surfaces and non-sharp edges and prohibits the use of chemicals, resins and adhesives.”
The statement has been added
Biodegradable agricultural by-product utensils can contribute to environmental safety, conserve natural resources, and promote a circular economy. The government expects to also create economic opportunities for farmers and support sustainable farming practices, thus contributing to rural development.
The disposable plate market was valued at $4.26 billion in 2020 and is expected to reach $6.73 billion by 2028, at a CAGR of 5.94 percent.
“In India, many manufacturers at the MSME level are actively contributing to the production of biodegradable cutlery, and they are making great use of this standard,” the statement added.