Gujarat High Court Issues Notice On PIL Against Sale Of Edible Oil Illegally Packaged In Reused Containers

The Gujarat High Court on Thursday (December 11) issued notice on a PIL highlighting illegal packaging of edible oils in re-used tin containers and its sale which it stated is putting the health and safety of the citizens at risk.

A division bench of Chief Justice Sunita Agarwal and Justice DN Ray issued notice to the Union of India and State government asking them to file their replies.

The court

The PIL filed by consumer protection association stated that the various edible oils being used in the State are cottonseed oil, sunflower oil, besides others such as sesame and grapeseed oil. It was stated that the most popular amongst them was cottonseed oil which accounts for 79.55% of edible oil consumed in Gujarat.

It was contended that approx 2 million tonnes of oil is consumed in the state and is a basic household ingredient for cooking. It was contended that there is a need to ensure highest level of packaging to protect the safety and health of citizens.

It was stated that the issue pertained to edible oil being packed and reused in tin containers, meaning thereby that tin containers that had already been utilised by the consumer and after they are discarded; these tins find their way back to unscrupulous companies/sellers who reuse them and sell edible oil in open market under different brand name.

The contention was that sale of edible oil in reused containers is hazardous and has been specifically banned by the FSSAI by way of notification in 1-8-2011, issued in exercise of powers conferred under Section 92 read with 23 of Food Safety and Standards Act 2006.

It is contended that the Food Safety and Standards (Packaging and labelling) Regulations, 2011 framed under the Act puts a complete ban on the sale of edible oil in pre-used tin and plastic containers.

The court's attention was invited to certain photographs appended to the petition to state that such packaging and sale was continuing unabated putting the life of citizens at risk.

The matter is listed on January 22, 2026.

Case title: ALL INDIA CONSUMER PROTECTION AND ACTION COMMITTEE v/s UNION OF INDIA & ORS

R/WPPIL/54/2025