New Delhi: The Department of Consumer Affairs has prescribed standard edible oil pack sizes under the Legal Metrology framework to improve price transparency and help consumers compare products across brands more easily.
The department amended the Standard Operating Procedure issued in December 2023 after consultations with industry associations representing nearly 90 per cent of the country’s edible oil sector.
Officials said varying package sizes often made it difficult for consumers to compare prices and assess value for money. Therefore, the revised norms aim to promote transparency and fair trade practices.
The new provisions apply to both domestically manufactured and imported edible oils. In addition, manufacturers, packers and importers will receive a three-month transition period to implement the changes.
New edible oil pack sizes to improve transparency
Under the revised framework, major edible oils and blended edible oils must be sold in standard pack sizes of 200 ml or grams, 500 ml or grams, 1 litre or kilogram, 2 litres or kilograms, 3 litres or kilograms, 4 litres or kilograms, 5 litres or kilograms, 15 litres or kilograms and 20 litres or kilograms.
The rules cover palm, soybean, sunflower, mustard, groundnut, sesame, rice bran, cottonseed and corn oils. However, packages below 200 ml or 200 grams remain exempt to ensure affordable options for consumers.
Furthermore, companies must display the equivalent weight whenever they declare quantity in litres or millilitres. Officials said this measure would make price comparisons easier and improve purchasing decisions.
The department said the reforms would encourage uniform packaging practices and simplify compliance for businesses. Consequently, consumers are expected to benefit from greater transparency and a more competitive marketplace.
