BIS QCO 2025, for Cookware, Utensils, and Cans for Foods and Beverages

Introduction to the BIS QCO for Cookware, Utensils, and Cans

The Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade (DPIIT), under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, has issued the Cookware, Utensils and Cans for Foods and Beverages (Quality Control) Order, 2025.

This new Order replaces the earlier 2024 QCO. The previous implementation date was 1 April 2025. However, with this fresh notification, the enforcement date has now been extended.

The purpose of this Order is to ensure that cookware, kitchen utensils, and food & beverage cans sold in India meet proper safety as well as quality standards. Since these products are directly used for cooking, storage, and food contact, maintaining quality is important for consumer health and safety.

Under this QCO, specified products must comply with the relevant Indian Standards and carry the ISI Mark.

Key Changes You Should Know

1. The 2025 Order replaces the 2024 notification.
2. It will be called Cookware, Utensils, and Cans for Foods and Beverages (Quality Control) Order, 2025.
3. The implementation date has been extended.
4. BIS certification under Scheme-I is mandatory.
5. Products must conform to the notified Indian Standards.
6. The Order comes into force from the date of publication in the Official Gazette.
7. BIS will act as the certifying as well as enforcement authority.
8. Non-compliance will attract penalties under the BIS Act, 2016.

Products Covered Under This QCO

The latest version of these standards, including amendments, will apply.

What is the Date of Implementation?

Benefits of this Order for the Industry

1. This Order improves product safety for food-contact materials.
2. It reduces the circulation of low-quality cookware as well as cans in the market.
3. It builds stronger consumer trust in certified brands.
4. It ensures fair competition among manufacturers who follow proper standards.
5. It also strengthens India’s manufacturing reputation in both domestic as well as export markets.

Now, What to Do?

Manufacturers as well as importers who are dealing in cookware, utensils, or food and beverage cans should act quickly. They must ensure to:

• Identify the correct Indian Standard that is applicable to your product.
• Conduct testing through BIS-recognized laboratories.
• Prepare factory quality control documentation.
• Apply for a BIS licence under Scheme-I.
• Review stock manufactured before implementation, as well as file required declarations if applicable.

Since different timelines apply to General, Small, and Micro enterprises, planning in advance is definitely important.

How Brand Liaison Can Help You

For businesses that are handling multiple kitchens as well as food-contact product categories, certification can become complex due to different standards and testing requirements. Brand Liaison supports you with complete compliance mapping, starting from selecting the right IS standard to coordinating lab testing and preparing plant documentation.

We also assist in managing old stock declarations, MSME eligibility review, and structured application filing in order to prevent rejection or delay.