IPC 272 → BNS 274: Adulteration of Food

Quick Summary: IPC 272 vs BNS 274

The Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS) 2023, in force since 1 July 2024, has replaced the colonial-era Indian Penal Code (IPC) 1860. IPC 272 covers adulteration of food, within the IPC's offences affecting public health, safety, decency and morals — public nuisance, negligent acts endangering life, adulteration, obscenity and rash driving. The BNS keeps these and, in places, sharpens the penalties for negligence, renumbering adulteration of food as BNS 274.

What did IPC 272 cover?

IPC 272 dealt with adulteration of food — adulteration of food or drink intended for sale. Until 30 June 2024, every FIR and criminal trial for this offence was registered and prosecuted under this provision of the Indian Penal Code 1860.

BNS 274: What changed in the new law?

No major change. From 1 July 2024, new complaints relating to adulteration of food are filed under BNS Section 274, while cases registered earlier continue under the old IPC provision as per the saving clause of the BNS.

Punishment under BNS 274

Same - Up to 6 months

Practical implications for advocates, police & citizens

• Advocates: Negligence and public-harm offences like adulteration of food turn on the standard of care and causation — frame the defence around BNS 274 and the specific duty alleged.
• Police officers: Record the act endangering the public and any injury caused; a new adulteration of food FIR cites BNS 274.
• Law students & citizens: Everyday conduct — rash driving, negligent handling of fire or poison, selling adulterated goods — can attract the adulteration of food provision.