Govt examining possibility to introduce standard packaging for cooking oil

The Department of Consumer Affairs is considering introducing standard packaging for cooking oils to simplify price comparisons and reduce market confusion.

The Department of Consumer Affairs on Monday said it is examining the possibility for introducing standard packaging for cooking oils, following concerns raised by industry bodies about random sizes flooding 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 follows suggestions from major industry associations representing around 90 per cent of the country's edible oil sector.

A meeting, under the chairpersonship of the Secretary, 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.

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.

During the meeting, industry representatives pointed out that edible oils are currently sold in several package quantities such as 650 g, 700 g, 810 g, 850 g and 870 g.

These associations pointed out that similar-looking packs with different quantities can make it potentially misleading to compare prices and make informed choices.

''It was clarified during the meeting that any such requirement, if introduced, would apply equally to both domestically manufactured and imported edible oils,'' the statement said.

The secretary observed that the ''suggestions received from industry associations are being examined to improve transparency, make price comparison easier for consumers and support fair trade practices''.

The department is examining the views received during the consultation.

The government remains committed to strengthening consumer protection and ensuring transparency in the marketplace through balanced and practical policy measures, the statement said.