Key Update

The Supreme Court of India on Monday declined to interfere with a Madras High Court order directing that plastic and PET bottles used to sell water, salt, and sugar carry warning labels stating that these products may contain micro or nano plastics. A bench comprising Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta observed that informing consumers about potential risks was justified. The judges noted that several reports have indicated the presence of microplastics in food and water and said consumers should remain aware of the issue.“Nothing is wrong in displaying the warning,” the bench remarked. The court also noted that although the government may appear slow in responding to the issue, the high court had taken a clear and proactive stand.

Madras High Court’s Directive

The matter stems from a February 2026 order of the Madras High Court, which asked authorities to introduce mandatory warning labels on certain plastic-packaged products. The high court directed the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India to issue a notification requiring water sold in plastic or PET (polyethene terephthalate) bottles to display a bold red label stating: “This water may contain micro/nano plastics.” The court also said that salt and sugar sold in plastic packaging should carry similar labels warning consumers that the products “may contain micro/nano plastics.”

Directions to the Food Regulator

To implement the measure, the high court instructed the FSSAI to issue directions to manufacturers and other stakeholders in the food supply chain. It asked the regulator to ensure that companies incorporate the warning statements into their product labels and enforce the requirement strictly. The court further directed authorities to issue the notification within four weeks from the date of receiving the order.

Industry Challenge Withdrawn

The order faced a challenge from the PET Packaging Association for Clean Environment, which argued that such warning labels could create unnecessary panic among consumers. However, during the hearing, the Supreme Court noted that the matter was still pending before the high court. The bench also pointed out that consumer awareness about plastic use has already been increasing, with many people gradually reducing their reliance on plastic bottles. After the court’s observations, the petitioner sought permission to withdraw the plea and approach the Madras High Court instead. The Supreme Court allowed the request and dismissed the petition as withdrawn.

Source: Deccan Chronicle