Government Considers Mandatory Standardized Packaging for Cooking Oil

Department of Consumer Affairs Examines Standard Packaging for Cooking Oils

The Department of Consumer Affairs has announced that it is examining the possibility of introducing standard packaging for cooking oils in response to concerns raised by industry bodies about the proliferation of random sizes in the retail market. According to an official statement, the department is "examining the possibility to introduce standard pack sizes for edible oils under the Legal Metrology framework".

This move follows suggestions from major industry associations representing around 90 per cent of the country's edible oil sector. A meeting, chaired by the Secretary of the Department of Consumer Affairs, was held on May 20, 2026, with representatives of major edible oil industry associations. During the meeting, industry bodies raised concerns regarding the increasing number of package sizes available in the market and the resulting difficulties faced by consumers in comparing prices across products.

Industry representatives from the Indian Vegetable Producers Association (IVPA), Solvent Extractors' Association (SEA), Soyabean Processors Association of India (SOPA), Central Organisation for Oil Industry and Trade (COOIT), and Mustard Oil Producers Association (MOPA) participated in the meeting. They pointed out that edible oils are currently sold in several package quantities, including 650 g, 700 g, 810 g, 850 g, and 870 g.

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These associations highlighted that similar-looking packs with different quantities can make it potentially misleading to compare prices and make informed choices. The statement clarified that any such requirement, if introduced, would apply equally to both domestically manufactured and imported edible oils.

The department is examining the views received during the consultation to improve transparency, make price comparison easier for consumers, and support fair trade practices. The government remains committed to strengthening consumer protection and ensuring transparency in the marketplace through balanced and practical policy measures.