Bamul set to pilot biodegradable corn-based Nandini milk packets, a first in India

Bengaluru : In a significant step toward sustainability, the Bangalore Milk Union Limited (BAMUL) is preparing to introduce biodegradable corn-based milk packets for its popular Nandini brand, signaling a possible shift from conventional plastic packaging. This move is expected to make Karnataka the first state in India to experiment with such eco-friendly packaging in the dairy sector.

The initiative gained momentum soon after D.K. Suresh assumed charge as the new president of BAMUL on Friday. Keen on giving Nandini milk a fresh, eco-conscious makeover, he has proposed introducing biodegradable packaging technology, which is currently in use only in select countries abroad.

The pilot project has been initiated in Shivanahalli, Kanakapura, where experimental production of these eco-friendly packets is underway. If successful, BAMUL plans to scale the model to cover milk distribution across the entire state.

Currently, Nandini milk is sold in traditional polythene packets. Under the new plan, these would be replaced with biodegradable covers made from corn starch, capable of decomposing completely within six months. BAMUL believes this would not only reduce environmental harm but also benefit farmers, as the discarded packets could serve as compostable material.

According to BAMUL, the daily demand for its products is substantial — it sells approximately 14 lakh litres of milk and curd every day, translating to around 20 lakh plastic packets. Transitioning to biodegradable alternatives could dramatically reduce plastic waste.

Officials added that this initiative is part of a broader effort to combine environmental responsibility with consumer health, ensuring that packaging materials are safe, sustainable, and supportive of circular agricultural practices.

As D.K. Suresh pushes for this innovative transformation, all eyes will be on whether the biodegradable Nandini milk packet becomes a national model for sustainable dairy distribution.