Legal metrology
Also called: Weights and measures regulation · Topic: Consumer Rights and Consumer Protection · NCERT: Class 7, Ch 12 "Understanding Markets"
Meaning
Legal metrology is the regulation of weights, measures and weighing instruments used in trade. It also covers the details that must be declared on packaged goods. The law is the Legal Metrology Act 2009, together with the Legal Metrology (Packaged Commodities) Rules 2011. A pre-packed item must show its net quantity, month and year of manufacture, MRP inclusive of all taxes, and maker's details. A 2022 amendment added the unit sale price (per kg or litre). This regulation stops under-weighing, one of the oldest ways of cheating buyers. The Jan Vishwas Act 2023 replaced jail terms for several minor offences with fines.
Example
A 500 g biscuit packet must state its net weight, MRP and price per kg. A buyer can then check the weight and compare it with a 1 kg pack.
Don't confuse with
- Standardisation (BIS): legal metrology checks quantity and packet declarations. BIS standards check the quality and safety of the product itself.