The GST Council’s new reforms, effective September 22, 2025, are bringing good news for food lovers. With major tax cuts on everyday food and fast food items, your next restaurant or grocery bill is about to get lighter. Here’s a breakdown.
1. chapati, Paratha, and pizza – Now Tax-Free!
- Indian breads like chapati and paratha, as well as pizza bases, will now attract 0% GST.
- Previously, a 5% tax was charged.
- Impact: Bills at restaurants like Domino’s, pizza Hut, or local eateries will now be lower.
Bottom Line: If you frequently order pizza or enjoy fresh chapatis at home, you’ll see a direct drop in your expenses.
2. pasta Gets Cheaper
- GST on pasta has been reduced from 12% to 5%.
- Restaurants and cafes serving pasta, or even packaged pasta at stores, will be more affordable.
Tip: A pasta lunch combo that cost Rs250 earlier may now cost around Rs15-20 less, depending on the outlet.
3. Snacks and Packaged Foods – Lighter on Your Wallet
- Instant noodles, bhujia, and namkeen will now attract only 5% GST.
- Earlier, these products were taxed at 12% or 18%.
- Impact: Grocery bills for snacks will come down, especially for families buying in bulk.
4. Breakfast Items Become Cheaper
- Sausages, mushrooms, and jams/jellies now fall under 5% GST instead of 12%.
- Benefit: Your morning toast, omelet, or sandwich breakfast becomes slightly cheaper.
5. Pastries, Cakes, Biscuits, and Chocolates – More Affordable
- GST on cakes, pastries, chocolates, and biscuits has been reduced from 12% to 5%.
- This is a sweet relief for bakery lovers and festive treats buyers.
6. Cold Drinks and Energy Drinks – The Price Shock
- GST on carbonated and caffeinated drinks like Coca-Cola, Thums Up, red Bull, and energy drinks is now 40%.
- Impact: While food gets cheaper, beverages will hit your wallet harder.
- Tip: Opt for water, juices, or milk-based drinks to save money.
7. Overall Impact on Your Food Bill
- GST 2.0 reduces taxes on daily meals, fast food, breakfast items, and snacks, giving direct relief to consumers.
- The bill at restaurants, cafes, and supermarkets will now be lighter, especially if you focus on food items rather than drinks.
- Families and students will notice tangible savings on groceries and casual dining.
Bottom Line: With GST 2.0, your chapati and pizza meals get cheaper, pasta and snacks are more affordable, while sugary and caffeinated drinks get pricier. The next time you dine out or shop for groceries, your food bill could decrease, saving you some extra cash.
Disclaimer:
The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.
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