The Soybean Processors Association of India (SOPA) has urged the government to reinstate standardised packaging norms for edible oils, warning that the current system is leading to widespread consumer confusion and potential deception.
In a letter to the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution, SOPA highlighted the unintended consequences of deregulating pack sizes from January 1, 2023. The appeal follows a joint representation by five national edible oil industry associations seeking immediate corrective action.
Before the policy change, edible oils were sold in fixed, standardised quantities such as 250 ml, 500 ml, 1 litre, and 5 litres, enabling easy price comparison and ensuring transparency. However, the removal of these norms allowed manufacturers to introduce a wide range of non-standard pack sizes, complicating purchasing decisions for consumers.
Although the reform mandated the display of unit sale price (price per gram or millilitre) to aid comparison, SOPA said this has not been effectively implemented or understood at the consumer level.
“The outcome has been contrary to the intent,” the association noted, adding that irregular pack sizes are making it difficult for buyers to assess value, thereby distorting fair competition in the market.
Industry bodies have now called on the government to reintroduce standard pack sizes or strengthen enforcement of unit pricing norms to protect consumer interests and restore pricing clarity in the edible oil segment.
The issue comes at a time when edible oils remain a critical component of household consumption in India, making pricing transparency and regulatory clarity key concerns for both consumers and industry stakeholders.