The government has introduced new standard pack sizes for edible oils under the Legal Metrology framework, aiming to improve price transparency and ensure fair trade practices across the market.
The move, announced on by the department of consumer affairs 6 June 2026, revises the existing standard operating procedure (SoP) from December 2023 following consultations with industry bodies representing nearly 90% of India’s edible oil sector.
The updated rules address the widespread issue of inconsistent packaging sizes, which has made it difficult for consumers to compare prices and assess value.
Under the revised guidelines, commonly used edible oils—including palm, soybean, sunflower, mustard, groundnut, sesame, rice bran, cottonseed, and corn oil—must now be sold in standardized pack sizes. These include 200 ml/g, 500 ml/g, 1 liter/kg, 2 liter/kg, 3 liter/kg, 4 liter/kg, 5 liter/kg, 15 liter/kg, and 20 liter/kg.
To further enhance transparency, manufacturers will also be required to display both volume and equivalent weight on packaging, enabling easier comparison across brands. The rules apply equally to domestically produced and imported edible oils.
However, smaller packs below 200 ml or 200 grams have been exempted to ensure affordability and accessibility for consumers. Minor edible oils are also excluded from the standardisation requirement.
The government has allowed a three-month transition period for manufacturers, packers, and importers to comply, although early adoption is encouraged. Existing provisions related to testing, sampling, and permissible errors will remain unchanged.
Officials say the initiative will empower consumers to make informed purchasing decisions while promoting uniformity and fair competition within the industry.
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Naresh Khanna – 10 February 2025
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