Key Development

The Ministry of Consumer Affairs has tasked the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) with a scientific study to assess how plastic packaging used widely in food delivery behaves under intense heat, long delivery times and extended storage. The study will test commonly used materials such as PET, recycled PET, polycarbonate and laminated films to measure how much chemical “migration” occurs when they come into contact with hot foods like curries and gravies. Based on the findings, the government may revise the Food Safety & Standards (Packaging) Regulations, 2018. Any tightening of these rules could increase compliance requirements for major food-delivery platforms such as Zomato and Swiggy.

Health Risks Drive the Study

Experts warn that plastics can release harmful chemicals under heat. BIS will test for substances migrating from containers, including heavy metals, especially under simulated delivery conditions.  Some stakeholders argue that packaging should carry clear markings — such as “heat-safe” labels or single-use-only tags — to make it safer for hot food.

Climate Crisis Adds Urgency

The study comes against a backdrop of rising heatwaves in India. Officials say shifting climate patterns and longer food-delivery times make it necessary to test packaging under real-world conditions.  One insider said that even moderate temperature changes can affect packaging integrity, potentially triggering higher chemical migration.

Voices Supporting the Move

Consumer advocates have welcomed the move. Ashim Sanyal, CEO of Consumer Voice, called the study “essential,” noting that Indian conditions differ significantly from global lab environments. Ankit Gupta of the Authentication Solution Providers’ Association said the initiative is timely and added that it could strengthen consumer trust while encouraging innovation in safer, more sustainable packaging..

What Comes Next

BIS will finalise its investigation and submit the findings to the Ministry of Consumer Affairs. Based on the results, policymakers may mandate stricter safety rules — potentially altering the packaging ecosystem and how food is delivered across India.

Source: Livemint