Everything You Need to Know About BIS Certification for Utensils and Cookware

Published on: April 15, 2025

When it comes to kitchenware, safety and quality are non-negotiable. In a country like India, where food is an essential part of culture and daily life, the utensils and cookware used for cooking and serving must meet stringent standards to ensure consumer safety. This is where the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) certification steps in as a critical mark of quality and trust.

In this blog, we’ll delve into what BIS certification is, why it matters for utensils and cookware manufacturers, the process involved, and the benefits it offers to businesses and consumers alike.

What is BIS Certification?

The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) is the national standards body of India, operating under the Ministry of Consumer Affairs, Food & Public Distribution. It is responsible for the development and implementation of Indian Standards (IS), which ensure product quality, safety, and reliability.

A BIS certification indicates that a product conforms to specific Indian standards set by BIS. It ensures that the product has been tested in a BIS-approved lab and meets all necessary requirements in terms of material, performance, and safety.

Why BIS Certification is Important for Utensils and Cookware

• → Consumer Safety: Prevents the usage of toxic or harmful materials in manufacturing.
• → Product Quality Assurance: Ensures longevity and robustness of cookware under various conditions.
• → Regulatory Compliance: Helps manufacturers comply with government regulations and avoid penalties.
• → Market Access: A BIS mark boosts consumer confidence and is often a prerequisite for selling products in formal retail markets, online platforms, and for exports.
• → Brand Credibility: Builds trust and credibility in the eyes of the customer.

BIS Standards for Utensils and Cookware

There are several Indian Standards that cover different types of cookware and utensils. Some of the most relevant include:

• → IS 14756:1999 – Stainless steel sheet and strip for utensils
• → IS 14767:2000 – Pressure cookers – Specification
• → IS 1660:2009 – Aluminium utensils – Specification
• → IS 302 Part 2/Sec 13 – Safety of household and similar electrical appliances – Cooking ranges, hobs, ovens

Manufacturers are required to ensure their products comply with the relevant standard before applying for certification.

Types of Products That Need BIS Certification in This Category

• → Stainless steel utensils (e.g., pots, pans, plates)
• → Aluminium cookware
• → Non-stick cookware
• → Pressure cookers
• → Electric kettles and induction cooktops (covered under electrical appliances standards)
• → Enamelled or coated utensils

In some cases, certification is mandatory, while in others, it is voluntary but recommended to gain customer trust and improve marketability.

The Process of Obtaining BIS Certification for Utensils and Cookware

1. Identify Applicable Standards: Determine the Indian Standard that applies to your product.
2. Product Testing: Send samples to a BIS-recognized lab for evaluation.
3. Application Submission: Apply on the BIS portal with required documents like:
   • → Factory license and address proof
   • → Test reports from BIS-recognized labs
   • → Manufacturing process details
   • → Quality control documents
   • → Product specifications
4. Factory Inspection (if applicable): BIS may inspect your facility for compliance.
5. Grant of License: Upon approval, you receive permission to use the ISI mark.
6. Surveillance and Renewal: Regular audits and testing are conducted. Certification must be renewed periodically.

Benefits of BIS Certification for Manufacturers

• → ✅ Improved Market Access: Easier entry into retail, e-commerce, and government sectors.
• → ✅ Increased Customer Trust: BIS mark signifies safety and builds consumer confidence.
• → ✅ Export Potential: Enhances international credibility and compliance.
• → ✅ Reduced Returns and Complaints: Certified products maintain consistent quality.

Penalties for Non-Compliance

Manufacturing or selling cookware without the necessary BIS certification—when required—can attract legal penalties. These include:

• → Fines up to ₹50,000 or more
• → Product recalls
• → Suspension of operations
• → Criminal prosecution in severe cases

Hence, compliance not only ensures quality but also legal safety for manufacturers.

Challenges in Obtaining BIS Certification

• → Complex Documentation: Requires organized paperwork and understanding of standards.
• → Time-Consuming Process: Testing and approvals can take several weeks.
• → Costs Involved: Includes fees for testing, certification, and consultancy if needed.

Conclusion

In today’s quality-conscious market, BIS certification is not just a regulatory formality but a strategic advantage for utensil and cookware manufacturers. It ensures that products are safe, reliable, and meet the high expectations of consumers and retailers alike.