Government Set to Restore Standard Oil Pack Sizes

The Ministry of Consumer Affairs is expected to restore standard packaging sizes for edible oils in response to demands from the All India Edible Oil Traders Federation. Standard pack sizes such as 250g, 500g, and 1L were discontinued in 2023 to provide greater flexibility to manufacturers. However, the market subsequently saw a rise in non-standard pack sizes like 810g, 840g, and 880ml, which traders claim have confused consumers. Industry representatives also highlighted concerns over volume declarations in millilitres without reference temperatures, as edible oils are affected by temperature variations. The Federation argued that the move intended to increase consumer choice instead enabled misleading packaging practices. The Department of Consumer Affairs has reportedly taken note of these concerns and is preparing a regulatory response. The proposed notification is expected to provide a 90-day transition period for manufacturers to align with the revised packaging requirements.