Government Introduces Mandatory Standards For Stainless Steel, Aluminium Utensils

The Bureau of Indian Standards has come up with rules covering essential kitchen items, including stainless steel and aluminium utensils, following the March 14 order of the Commerce and Industry Ministry, which made the ISI mark compulsory for such utensils.

"Non-compliance is punishable, emphasising the government's commitment to consumer safety and product integrity," the press release by the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food and Public Distribution said.

"These standards reflect the BIS's commitment to ensuring that all kitchen utensils meet stringent criteria and adhere to the quality and safety benchmarks," it said.

For stainless steel utensils, the bureau has codified these attributes in the Indian Standard IS 14756:2022, which specifies the requirements for various types of utensils used in cooking, serving, dining, and storage.

These include safe composition of materials used in manufacturing, uniformity and practicality in utensil design, as well as high quality craftsmanship and aesthetic appeal.

The bureau also listed performance parameters which include staining test, mechanical shock test, thermal shock test, dry heat test, coating thickness test, nominal capacity test, flame stability test, and specific tests for utensils with tempered glass lids.

IS 1660:2024 has been developed for the specifications for wrought and cast aluminium utensils, up to 30 litres in capacity, including hard anodised and non-stick unreinforced plastic coating.

The elements under this standard include the use of appropriate grades as per IS 21 for wrought utensils and IS 617 for cast utensils, detailing the shapes, dimensions, and workmanship needed for high quality utensils, and specific tests for aluminium lunch boxes to ensure durability and safety.

"By introducing these standards, the BIS aims to uphold cultural diversity in culinary practices while promoting superior product performance and consumer safety," the press release said.