Indian Government considering standard packaging sizes for cooking oil to simplify price comparisons for consumers

INDIA – India’s Department of Consumer Affairs has examined the possibility of introducing standard packaging sizes for cooking oil, after industry bodies raised concerns that a proliferation of pack sizes is confusing consumers and making price comparisons difficult.

The department met with major edible oil associations to discuss improving transparency and fair trade practices. 

The move aims to help consumers compare prices across brands by eliminating the need for per-unit calculations when pack sizes vary. 

Currently, consumers face a confusing array of pack sizes from different brands. Without standardised sizes, a consumer comparing a 950ml bottle at ₹120 (approximately US$1.44) with a 1 litre bottle at ₹125 (approximately US$1.50) must calculate price per 100ml to make an informed decision. Standardisation would allow side-by-side price comparison at a glance.

The Problem of Proliferating Pack Sizes

Cooking oil brands have historically used pack size variations as a non-price competitive tool. 

A brand that cannot compete on per-unit price may introduce a slightly smaller pack at a slightly lower absolute price, giving the appearance of affordability while maintaining margin per unit. 

Over time, this results in a proliferation of sizes, 900ml, 925ml, 950ml, 975ml, 1 litre—that serve no consumer benefit but increase confusion. 

The Department of Consumer Affairs has taken up the issue as part of broader efforts to enforce labelling and measurement standards under the Legal Metrology Act.

Industry Engagement

The department met with major edible oil associations to discuss how to make price comparisons easier. 

Industry bodies have raised concerns that many different package sizes confuse consumers and make it difficult to compare prices across brands. 

The move aims to improve transparency and fair trade practices for consumers. 

For large brands that already adhere to standard sizes, regulation would level the playing field by prohibiting competitors from using odd-size packs to obscure true pricing. 

For smaller brands that rely on pack size variation as a competitive tactic, standardisation would force them to compete on price or quality instead of packaging gimmicks.

Implementation Considerations

If implemented, the regulation would specify permitted pack sizes (e.g., 500ml, 1 litre, 2 litres, 5 litres) and prohibit sizes outside the standard range. 

The Department would need to decide whether to mandate only primary pack sizes or also regulate secondary packaging and display units. 

Enforcement would require inspection of retail shelves and online listings, with penalties for non-compliant packs. 

The timeline for implementation has not been announced, but the consultation process with industry suggests that a draft notification could follow within months.

Subscribe to our email newsletters that provide busy executives like you with the latest news insights and trends from Africa and the World. SUBSCRIBE HERE