The Solvent Extractors’ Association of India (SEA) has highlighted that the government’s recent revision of the standard operating procedure (SOP) for edible oil packaging and labeling could have far-reaching implications.
Sanjeev Asthana, President of SEA, praised the government and the Department of Consumer Affairs for this initiative, emphasizing that while it may seem to be merely a packaging change, its impact extends beyond that. “This is a consumer-first initiative that will help reduce confusion and strengthen trust across the edible oil value chain,” he stated.
BV Mehta, Executive Director of SEA, remarked that this revision exemplifies effective collaboration between government and industry, showcasing that meaningful reforms can be realized when stakeholders unite around a shared goal.
Permitted Standards
The revised SOP mandates standard pack sizes for major edible oils, including palm oil, soybean oil, sunflower oil, mustard/rapeseed oil, groundnut oil, sesame oil, rice bran oil, cottonseed oil, corn oil, and blended edible oils. The approved pack sizes include 500 ml, 1 liter, 2 liters, 3 liters, 4 liters, 5 liters, 15 liters/15 kg, and 20 liters/20 kg. Packs below 200 ml are not included within this standardization framework. Additionally, minor edible oils have been exempted from these requirements.
Packages of edible oils indicating quantities in liters or milliliters must also specify the equivalent weight. These new regulations will apply equally to both domestically produced and imported edible oils.
To ensure an orderly transition, manufacturers, packers, and importers will be granted a three-month period to comply with the new SOP requirements. However, businesses that wish to adopt the specified standard pack sizes sooner are permitted to do so immediately.
Published on June 8, 2026.
