New Delhi: The Supreme Court of India on Monday refused to interfere with an order of the Madras High Court directing that plastic and PET-packaged food items such as water, salt and sugar carry labels warning that they “may contain micro/nano plastics.”
A bench comprising Justices Vikram Nath and Sandeep Mehta observed that there was “nothing wrong in displaying the warning,” stressing the importance of public awareness amid growing concerns over microplastics.
“The government may be dragging its feet, but the high court is very affirmative on this as reports have suggested the presence of micro plastics. Let the public be aware,” the bench remarked during the hearing.
The court also noted that consumer behaviour is already shifting, with people increasingly reducing the use of plastic products, including bottled water, in response to health concerns.
The apex court was hearing a plea filed by the PET Packaging Association for Clean Environment, which had challenged the February 2026 directive of the Madras High Court. The High Court had asked the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India to mandate clear warning labels on plastic-packaged water bottles as well as on sugar and salt sold in such packaging.
The directive specified that labels should be prominently displayed in bold red lettering, stating that the products “may contain micro/nano plastics,” and had asked authorities to implement the notification within four weeks.
During the proceedings, the petitioner argued that such warnings could create panic among consumers. However, the bench maintained that informing the public was necessary.
Subsequently, the petitioner sought permission to withdraw the plea with liberty to approach the High Court, which was allowed by the court.
The matter remains pending before the Madras High Court, where further proceedings are expected.
