FSSAI reiterates ban on newspaper as food packaging

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has once again directed food business operators (FBOs) to stop using newspapers for packing, wrapping and serving food, warning that the practice poses serious health risks and violates food packaging regulations.

The advisory, issued by FSSAI’s Western Region office, follows a recent incident in Mumbai where a vada pav vendor was found using newspaper to pack food. The case prompted joint action by FSSAI and the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC), bringing renewed attention to the role of packaging materials in food safety.

According to FSSAI, newspapers are not approved food-contact materials and can contaminate food through direct contact. Printing inks used in newspapers may contain harmful substances, including lead and other heavy metals, which can migrate into food, particularly when the food is hot, oily or moist.

The regulator also highlighted hygiene concerns. Newspapers pass through multiple handling points and are often exposed to dust, dirt and other contaminants during printing, transportation and distribution. As a result, their use in direct contact with food can increase the risk of foodborne illnesses.

FSSAI reiterated that the Food Safety and Standards (Packaging) Regulations, 2018 prohibit the use of newspapers and similar unapproved materials for storing, wrapping or serving food. The directive applies to street food vendors, restaurants, cloud kitchens, caterers and takeaway outlets, all of whom have been instructed to adopt approved food-grade packaging materials.

For the packaging industry, the advisory underscores the growing demand for safe, compliant and fit-for-purpose food-contact solutions. Common alternatives include food-grade paper wraps, grease-resistant paper, parchment and butter paper, paperboard cartons, moulded fibre packs, aluminium foil containers, and certified plastic packaging manufactured in accordance with food-contact standards. For quick-service foods such as vada pav, sandwiches and snacks, greaseproof paper and food-grade paper pouches have emerged as widely accepted substitutes.

The move also reflects a broader shift in the foodservice sector, where regulatory compliance is increasingly influencing packaging choices. As enforcement intensifies and food safety remains a priority, converters and packaging suppliers have an opportunity to educate food businesses—particularly small vendors—about affordable food-grade alternatives that meet both safety and regulatory requirements.

FSSAI has also urged consumers to remain vigilant and avoid accepting food packed or served in newspapers.