The Old Maze of Murky Pricing
For a long time, walking down the cooking oil aisle in a supermarket felt like a complex maths test. Consumers were faced with a baffling array of quantities: 850 ml bottles, 910g pouches, and 950 ml jars, often sitting right next to standard one-litre
packs. This variation was not accidental. By offering products in non-standard sizes, some manufacturers made it difficult for shoppers to make a direct, like-for-like price comparison. A bottle might have seemed cheaper at first glance, but it often contained less oil, a tactic that can obscure the true unit price and mislead customers into thinking they are getting a better deal. This proliferation of odd sizes created confusion and worked against consumer interests, a concern raised by both consumer groups and industry bodies.
What Exactly Has Changed?
In a significant move to protect consumers, the Department of Consumer Affairs has amended the rules governing the packaging of edible oils. As of June 2026, manufacturers and importers of major edible oils must now sell their products in a limited set of standard sizes. The permitted quantities are 200 ml/g, 500 ml/g, 1 litre/kg, 2 litres/kg, 3 litres/kg, 4 litres/kg, 5 litres/kg, 15 litres/kg, and 20 litres/kg. This rule applies to most common cooking oils, including palm, soybean, sunflower, mustard, and groundnut oil. Consequently, unconventional pack sizes like 870g or 950 ml will be phased out. Manufacturers have been given a three-month transition period to comply with the new norms.
Why This Rule Matters for Your Wallet
This standardisation is a direct win for household budgets. The primary benefit is improved price transparency. When all brands are selling oil in a 1-litre pack, for example, you can instantly see which one is more expensive. There is no more need to calculate the per-100ml price in your head or with a calculator on your phone. This simple change levels the playing field and ensures competition is based on quality and genuine price, not confusing packaging. Furthermore, the new rules mandate that packages sold by volume (litres) must also declare the equivalent weight in grams or kilograms, adding another layer of clarity for consumers.
A Win for Consumer Transparency
The decision, which came after extensive consultations with industry associations representing nearly 90% of the sector, marks a significant step towards fair market practices. Industry leaders have welcomed the move, stating it will “restore structural sanity to retail shelves.” The government's initiative is part of a broader focus on consumer protection and transparent labelling. By eliminating deceptive packaging strategies, the new regulations empower consumers to make informed choices easily and accurately. To ensure affordability for all, the rule provides exemptions for very small packs (below 200 ml or 200 grams) and for minor edible oils, allowing budget-friendly sachets to remain available.
How to Be a Smarter Shopper
As these changes roll out over the next few months, consumers can make the most of this newfound clarity. When you are shopping for cooking oil, make a point to check for these new standard volumes on the packaging. Take a moment to compare the prices of identical-sized packs from different brands. This will give you a true sense of value. Be wary of any remaining non-standard packs during the transition period, as they may not be the bargain they appear to be. This regulation puts power back into the hands of the shopper, making it easier than ever to ensure you are getting exactly what you pay for.
