The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) in Chennai has announced new quality standards for biodegradable disposable utensils such as plates made from areca leaves, wooden spoons, and forks. These utensils will now carry the ISI mark, indicating their quality and adherence to the BIS standards.
With the increasing demand for eco-friendly cutlery, the BIS plans to collaborate with the State government and self-help groups to promote the manufacturing of sustainable alternatives to plastic materials. By doing so, they aim to provide consumers with high-quality, environmentally friendly options that meet the BIS quality specifications.
The Indian Standard for Food serving utensils made from agri by-products-specification (IS 18267:2023) has been introduced to guide manufacturers on producing utensils that meet the required quality standards. This standard will ensure uniformity in the quality of these products across India and assist consumers in making informed choices.
The recent surge in the number of manufacturers producing biodegradable cutlery is a testament to the growing preference for eco-friendly materials. To streamline the manufacturing process and enable proper testing of these disposable utensils, the BIS has formulated standards that will help ensure the quality of the products.
Although the adoption of the new standards is currently voluntary, manufacturers are encouraged to include a sticker on the bottom of the utensils, indicating the date of manufacture and the ISI mark. The utensils will also undergo hot water and hot oil resistance testing to ensure their durability.
By implementing these standards, the BIS aims to encourage the production and use of biodegradable cutlery, ultimately reducing the environmental impact of single-use plastic utensils.
The move towards eco-friendly alternatives has gained significant momentum in recent years, with consumers and the food industry both showing an increased preference for sustainable materials. Manufacturers are responding to this demand by producing a wider range of biodegradable options. With the BIS’s new standards in place, consumers can feel confident in the quality and sustainability of the utensils they choose.
The BIS’s efforts to collaborate with the State government and self-help groups will further support the production of eco-friendly alternatives to plastic. By working together, they can help create a more sustainable future and reduce the dependence on single-use plastics.
Overall, the BIS’s notification of quality standards for biodegradable disposable utensils is a significant step towards promoting sustainability in India. These standards will not only ensure the quality of the products but also guide manufacturers in producing eco-friendly options. With the inclusion of the ISI mark, consumers can easily identify and choose high-quality, biodegradable utensils, thus contributing to a greener environment.
