An IVPA statement said the Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Amendment Rules, 2021, mandated the declaration of the unit sale price.
The Indian Vegetable Oil Producers’ Association (IVPA) has said the Government will look into reinstating standardised edible oil packaging.
IVPA, along with other edible oil industry associations, industry bodies, consumer forums, food processing associations and legal metrology controllers of all States and Union Territories, met the Joint Secretary, Union Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution, on reinstating of standardised pack sizes for edible oils over a virtual call.
An IVPA statement said the Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Amendment Rules, 2021, mandated the declaration of the unit sale price.
Subsequently through an amendment, the Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules, 2022, omitted Schedule II which mandated commodities to be packed in specific quantities, thus allowing the market to be proliferated with non-standardized packaging.
Unanimous view
The intended benefit was to allow producers to pack as they deem it fit, and it was expected that soon the markets will settle down and consumer awareness of unit selling price will take care of the non-standard pack offerings.
IVPA said all stakeholders from edible oil sector were of the view that the reintroduction of Schedule II will be an important step to ensure transparency, restore normalcy in the market, and protect consumer interest.
The IVPA statement said that the Government has assured the stakeholders that it will look into the issue that has led to confusion and misleading value perception for the consumers. All the concerned stakeholders have been asked to submit final recommendations in this regard.
Advantages of uniformity
Standardised packaging ensures that price comparisons are simple, transparent, and fair. It creates a level-playing field for both consumers and producers, encouraging trust and long-term brand value.
IVPA had urged the Government in April on the need for reinstating standard pack sizes (like 5 kg, 2 kg, 1 kg, 500 grams, 200 grams or any other lower size packs). It had stated that it will be a constructive step toward strengthening the consumer ecosystem while aligning with the Government’s broader goals of transparency, fair trade practices and consumer empowerment.
Source : The Hindu Businessline
