BIS Extension Order for Cookware, Utensils, and Cans for Foods and Beverages (Quality Control) Order, 2024

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

The Ministry of Commerce and Industry has recently issued an extension order for the Cookware, Utensils and Cans for Foods and Beverages (Quality Control) Order, 2024, on 11 October 2024, after consultation with the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS).

This BIS extension revises the earlier Quality Control Order that was notified on 14 March 2024, which was originally scheduled to come into force on 1 September 2024. The revised order provides additional time to manufacturers, especially MSMEs, in order to comply with mandatory BIS certification requirements.

Key changes you should know

1. The enforcement date of the QCO has been extended.
2. BIS certification (ISI Mark) remains mandatory for cookware, utensils, and cans that are used for food and beverages.
3. Products must comply with the relevant Indian Standards, including stainless steel utensils, aluminium utensils, sinks, as well as food & beverage cans.
4. BIS continues to be the certifying and enforcing authority.
5. Products that are manufactured only for export purposes are exempted from the provisions of this Order.

What is the date of implementation?

The revised implementation dates under this extension order are:

• Large / General Enterprises: 1st April 2025
• Small Enterprises: 1st July 2025
• Micro Enterprises: 1st October 2025

Manufacturers must obtain BIS certification before their applicable date in order to legally sell these products in the Indian market.

Benefits of this Order for the Industry / Businesses

1. Ensures safe as well as good-quality cookware and food-contact products for consumers.
2. Gives manufacturers additional time to prepare for BIS compliance.
3. Improves trust as well as credibility of certified products in the market.
4. Protects the market from substandard and unsafe products.
5. Creates fair competition between compliant manufacturers.
6. Supports long-term growth of the cookware and food packaging industry.

Now, what to do?

Businesses involved in manufacturing or importing cookware, utensils, and food & beverage cans should:

• Check whether their products are covered under this QCO.
• Identify the applicable Indian Standards.
• Confirm their enterprise category (large, small, or micro) along with the relevant deadline.
• Start the BIS ISI certification process well in advance.
• Prepare for product testing, factory inspection, and documentation.

Brand Liaison offers complete support for compliance under this QCO, including product scope assessment, standard interpretation, BIS testing coordination, certification assistance, as well as complete enforcement readiness, helping businesses achieve timely and completely hassle-free BIS certification before the extended deadlines.