Cookware, Utensils, and Cans for Foods and Beverages Quality Control Order- 2026: Ensuring Quality Standards in India

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry, through the Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), has issued a new regulation titled Cookware, Utensils, and Cans for Foods and Beverages (Quality Control) Order, 2026. This order, published on January 15, 2026, aims to ensure the quality and safety of cookware, utensils, and cans used for food and beverages in India. It supersedes the previous Cookware, Utensils and Cans for Foods and Beverages (Quality Control) Order, 2025, specifically concerning Wrought Aluminium Utensils and Aluminium Cans for Beverages.

Key Highlights of the Order

1. Short Title and Commencement 

The order is officially named the Cookware, Utensils and Cans for Foods and Beverages (Quality Control) Order, 2026. It comes into effect on the date of its publication in the Official Gazette.

2. Mandatory Use of Standard Mark 

The order mandates that all specified goods and articles listed in the table must conform to the corresponding Indian Standards and bear the Standard Mark. This certification will be issued under a license from the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) as per Scheme-1 of Schedule-II of the Bureau of Indian Standards (Conformity Assessment) Regulations, 2018.

However, there are certain exemptions:

Goods manufactured domestically for export are not subject to this order.
Micro and small enterprises, as defined under the Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Act, 2006, are granted additional time to comply with the standards. The implementation dates for these enterprises are specified in the table.
Goods manufactured or imported before the implementation date can be sold or displayed for up to six months, provided the manufacturer or importer declares the stock certified by a Chartered Accountant to the Bureau.
Goods filled with solid, liquid, or gas materials when imported into India are exempt.
Up to 200 goods or articles imported annually for research and development purposes by manufacturers are exempt, provided they are not sold commercially and are disposed of as scrap. Manufacturers must maintain year-wise records and report to the Central Government.

3. Implementation Timeline

The table in the order specifies the implementation dates for different categories of enterprises:

General (other than micro and small enterprises): October 1, 2026
Small enterprises: January 1, 2027
Micro enterprises: April 1, 2027

4. Certification and Enforcement Authority 

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is designated as the certifying and enforcement authority for the goods and articles specified in the order. BIS will ensure compliance with the prescribed standards and issue certifications accordingly.

Goods and Standards Covered 

The order applies to two specific categories of goods:

Wrought Aluminium Utensils (Indian Standard: IS 1660:2024)
Aluminium Cans for Beverages (Indian Standard: IS 14407:2023)

The latest versions of these Indian Standards, including amendments notified by the Bureau, will apply from the date of notification.

Implications of the Order

The Cookware, Utensils and Cans for Foods and Beverages (Quality Control) Order, 2026 is a significant step toward ensuring the quality and safety of products used in food and beverage consumption. By mandating compliance with Indian Standards, the government aims to protect public health, promote consumer confidence, and enhance the competitiveness of Indian manufacturers in the global market.

The phased implementation timeline for micro and small enterprises reflects the government’s commitment to supporting smaller businesses while ensuring they meet quality standards. Additionally, the exemptions for exports and research and development activities demonstrate a balanced approach to regulation, fostering innovation and international trade.

Conclusion

The Cookware, Utensils and Cans for Foods and Beverages (Quality Control) Order, 2026 is a landmark regulation that underscores the importance of quality control in consumer goods. By enforcing strict standards and providing a clear implementation timeline, the government is taking proactive measures to safeguard public health and promote the growth of the manufacturing sector. Businesses involved in the production and import of cookware, utensils, and cans for food and beverages must ensure compliance with the order to align with national standards and contribute to a safer and more reliable market.

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Source: E- Gazette Portal on behalf of DPIIT, Min. of Commerce, Govt. of India

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