Insulated containers for food storage are designed to maintain the temperature of food and beverages for a specified period while providing safe and convenient storage and transportation. They are commonly used as lunch boxes, casseroles, hot and cold food containers and other domestic food-storage products.<\/p>\n
Because these containers are directly associated with food storage, their material safety, insulation performance, leakage resistance, impact strength, stability, construction and workmanship are important quality parameters.<\/p>\n
In India, IS 17569:2021 \u2013 Insulated Containers for Food Storage<\/strong> specifies requirements for insulated containers intended for food storage. The current BIS Product Manual PM\/IS 17569\/4\/December 2024<\/strong> states that certification is operated under Scheme-I of the BIS Conformity Assessment Regulations, 2018<\/strong> and can be used by existing licensees as well as prospective applicants seeking a BIS licence.<\/p>\n The standard is included in the compulsory BIS certification framework under the Insulated Flask, Bottles and Containers for Domestic Use (Quality Control) Order, 2024<\/strong>. The order specifically lists IS 17569:2021 \u2013 Insulated Container for Food Storage<\/strong> and requires covered products to bear the Standard Mark under a BIS licence according to Scheme-I, subject to the order’s provisions and exemptions.<\/p>\n Qualitance India<\/strong> provides end-to-end BIS Certification Consultancy for Insulated Containers for Food Storage as per IS 17569:2021<\/strong>, including product assessment, material and type review, capacity grouping, documentation, sample preparation, laboratory testing coordination, BIS application support and factory inspection preparation.<\/p>\n IS 17569:2021<\/strong> is titled:<\/p>\n \u201cInsulated Containers for Food Storage\u201d<\/strong><\/p>\n The current BIS Product Manual identifies the product under Scheme-I and establishes certification requirements covering materials, construction, dimensions, thermal performance, mechanical strength, leakage and food-contact safety.<\/p>\n The major requirements include:<\/p>\n Insulated food-storage containers are containers designed to help maintain the temperature of food for a specified period.<\/p>\n Depending on the design, they can include:<\/p>\n The exact configuration determines the applicable scope, testing and grouping requirements.<\/p>\n The current BIS Product Manual classifies containers based on material, insulation type, usage and nominal capacity<\/strong>.<\/p>\n The Product Manual identifies the following categories:<\/p>\n The outside is made from plastic while the food-contact inner container is stainless steel.<\/p>\n Both inner and outer containers are made of stainless steel.<\/p>\n The product uses plastic for both inner and outer container construction.<\/p>\n A combination of the above arrangements may be included, with each variety specified.<\/p>\n Different lid and bottom configurations may also fall within the scope.<\/p>\n Containers may have a glass lid with suitable beading.<\/p>\n The Product Manual includes hot\/cold boxes containing stainless-steel utensils with stainless-steel or plastic lids.<\/p>\n The Product Manual identifies three insulation categories:<\/p>\n The insulation type is important because different designs may require different conformity checks.<\/p>\n IS 17569:2021 identifies two usage categories:<\/p>\n This classification forms part of the licence-scope and grouping framework.<\/p>\n The BIS Product Manual divides nominal capacities into three groups:<\/p>\n The scope should therefore be planned according to the actual capacity range the manufacturer intends to produce.<\/p>\n Yes. Insulated Containers for Food Storage under IS 17569:2021 are included in the compulsory BIS certification framework.<\/strong><\/p>\n The Insulated Flask, Bottles and Containers for Domestic Use (Quality Control) Order, 2024<\/strong> specifically lists:<\/p>\n IS 17569:2021 \u2013 Insulated Container for Food Storage<\/strong><\/p>\n and requires covered products to conform to the corresponding Indian Standard and bear the Standard Mark under a BIS licence according to Scheme-I.<\/p>\n The current BIS Scheme-I page also lists IS 17569:2021 \u2013 Insulated Container for Food Storage<\/strong> under the Insulated Flask, Bottles and Containers for Domestic Use category and references the applicable 2023 and 2024 QCO notifications.<\/p>\n The 2024 QCO covers:<\/p>\n The QCO came into force three months after notification for the general category, six months for Small Enterprises and nine months for Micro Enterprises. It also contains exemptions for domestically manufactured goods intended for export and certain qualifying micro\/small enterprises under the stated conditions.<\/p>\n Manufacturers should verify the latest applicable notifications, amendments and exemption conditions before making a final compliance decision.<\/p>\n BIS Certification demonstrates conformity of the insulated container with the applicable requirements of IS 17569:2021<\/strong>.<\/p>\n The current BIS Product Manual confirms certification under:<\/p>\n Scheme-I of the BIS Conformity Assessment Regulations, 2018.<\/strong><\/p>\n After obtaining the BIS licence, the manufacturer can use the BIS Standard Mark \/ ISI Mark<\/strong> on products included in the approved licence scope and conforming to the standard.<\/p>\n BIS certification is relevant to manufacturers producing insulated food-storage containers covered by IS 17569:2021.<\/p>\n This can include:<\/p>\n Importers and sellers should separately assess their obligations under the applicable QCO.<\/p>\n A manufacturer applying for BIS certification should have suitable manufacturing and quality-control arrangements.<\/p>\n Depending on the product configuration, these may include:<\/p>\n The exact requirements depend on the material combination, insulation type, usage type, capacity and proposed licence scope.<\/p>\n The product is reviewed against IS 17569:2021.<\/p>\n Important parameters include:<\/p>\n The manufacturer identifies the applicable:<\/p>\n Material Type + Insulation Type + Usage Type + Capacity Group<\/strong><\/p>\n This is important for product grouping and sample selection.<\/p>\n The manufacturer determines the capacities and varieties intended to be included in the BIS licence.<\/p>\n The Product Manual requires the highest nominal capacity from each capacity group for each applicable material type, insulation type and usage type to be separately tested for all requirements. Factory test reports for other intended capacities must also be submitted.<\/p>\n Technical, manufacturing and quality-control documents are prepared.<\/p>\n The current BIS Product Manual specifies:<\/p>\n Sample Size: 8 Nos.<\/strong><\/p>\n The representative samples are tested against the applicable requirements.<\/p>\n The manufacturer submits the BIS application with required technical and factory documents.<\/p>\n BIS assesses the manufacturing facility, testing arrangements and quality-control system.<\/p>\n Any observations raised during the assessment are addressed through corrective action.<\/p>\n After successful conformity assessment, BIS grants the licence for the approved product scope.<\/p>\n The manufacturer can apply the BIS Standard Mark to compliant products according to the licence conditions.<\/p>\n Raw materials are particularly important because several components can come in direct or indirect contact with food.<\/p>\n The current Product Manual identifies material requirements including:<\/p>\n Grade 308L as per IS 5856<\/strong>.<\/p>\n The applicable materials can include:<\/p>\n Where made from steel, the Product Manual identifies relevant stainless-steel grades including Grade N1\/N2 and 304 series or 316\/316L under the referenced standards.<\/p>\n Where provided, the rim should meet the applicable stainless-steel material requirements.<\/p>\n Safety glass used for the glass lid must comply with the applicable performance requirements of IS 2347<\/strong>.<\/p>\n Applicable stainless-steel grades are identified in the Product Manual.<\/p>\n Where internal utensils are supplied with the container, the Product Manual specifies applicable stainless-steel material requirements.<\/p>\n The material of plastic components must be declared and its conformity established through the supplier’s test certificate.<\/p>\n The insulation material must also be declared and conformity supported through the supplier’s test certificate.<\/p>\n Food safety is an important part of IS 17569:2021.<\/p>\n The BIS Product Manual includes specific provisions for:<\/p>\n The current BIS LIMS database specifically lists testing for leaching of food-grade stainless steel<\/strong>, sensorial testing<\/strong>, BPA in polymers<\/strong>, silicone gasket overall migration and defects<\/strong>, and other component requirements.<\/p>\n Where polymer components are used, BPA compliance becomes an important requirement.<\/p>\n The BIS testing database lists:<\/p>\n Polymer \u2013 Test for BPA<\/strong><\/p>\n under Clause 7.1.2.2.<\/p>\n Manufacturers should maintain material declarations and appropriate test certificates for plastic food-contact components.<\/p>\n Where silicone gaskets are used, the BIS testing framework includes:<\/p>\n under the relevant clause.<\/p>\n The gasket material should be suitable for food-contact application and meet the applicable requirements.<\/p>\n For coated components, the current Product Manual includes:<\/p>\n The Product Manual identifies IS 9730<\/strong> for applicable coating-related test methods and IS 9806<\/strong> for lead and cadmium limits.<\/p>\n Capacity is an important requirement because the container’s declared capacity forms part of the licence scope.<\/p>\n The Product Manual identifies:<\/p>\n Clause 7.3 \u2013 Capacity<\/strong><\/p>\n as a routine factory test. The recommended level of control is three samples from each control unit<\/strong>.<\/p>\n Heat retention is one of the most important performance characteristics of an insulated food container.<\/p>\n The Product Manual includes testing at:<\/p>\n The recommended testing frequency varies with the duration and is linked to each capacity and material. For example, 1-hour and 6\/12-hour heat-retention tests are recommended once a month, while the 24-hour test is recommended once every three months.<\/p>\n The required equipment includes:<\/p>\n Cold retention evaluates the container’s ability to maintain a low temperature for the specified period.<\/p>\n The Product Manual identifies Clause 7.5 \u2013 Cold Retention Capability<\/strong> and recommends testing three samples once a month for each capacity and material.<\/p>\n The testing setup includes:<\/p>\n The drop-impact test evaluates the ability of the container to withstand impact during normal handling.<\/p>\n The Product Manual specifies three samples once every three months for this requirement, with additional testing provisions in case of failure.<\/p>\n The required equipment includes a Drop Impact Test Fixture<\/strong>.<\/p>\n The pendulum impact test evaluates resistance to impact from another specified direction or condition.<\/p>\n The current Product Manual specifies three samples once every three months.<\/p>\n The equipment includes a Pendulum Impact Test Fixture<\/strong>.<\/p>\n Containers provided with handles must satisfy the applicable strength requirement.<\/p>\n The Product Manual identifies Clause 7.7 \u2013 Fixing Strength of the Handle<\/strong> and recommends three samples once every three months.<\/p>\n Testing may involve:<\/p>\n For products provided with a shoulder strap, the strap strength is tested under the applicable requirement.<\/p>\n The Product Manual recommends testing three samples once every three months.<\/p>\n Leakage testing is important for food containers because leakage can affect food safety, usability and insulation performance.<\/p>\n The Product Manual identifies Clause 7.9 \u2013 Leakage Test<\/strong> as a routine factory test with three samples from each control unit.<\/p>\n The test equipment includes measuring jars, hot plate, thermometer, surfactant, torque wrench and stopwatch.<\/p>\n For certain vacuum insulated stainless-steel containers<\/strong>, the Product Manual identifies a separate Joint Leak Test<\/strong>.<\/p>\n This is a routine test carried out with three samples from each control unit.<\/p>\n The equipment includes:<\/p>\n For stainless-steel products, staining performance is assessed under the applicable requirement.<\/p>\n The Product Manual recommends three samples once every three months.<\/p>\n Where Polyurethane Foam (PUF)<\/strong> or another similar thermal insulation material is used, the insulation is checked according to the applicable requirements.<\/p>\n The Product Manual identifies:<\/p>\n Clause 7.12 \u2013 Checking of PUF Insulation<\/strong><\/p>\n with a recommended frequency of one sample once every three months<\/strong>.<\/p>\n The density of PUF is measured using a weighing balance according to Annex F.<\/p>\n Where a shoulder strap is provided, its length is checked against the applicable requirement.<\/p>\n The Product Manual identifies Clause 7.13.1<\/strong> and recommends three samples per control unit.<\/p>\n Container stability is important to prevent accidental tipping during use.<\/p>\n The Product Manual identifies:<\/p>\n Clause 7.13.2 \u2013 Stability of Flask<\/strong><\/p>\n as a routine test with three samples per control unit.<\/p>\n The test uses a plane inclined at 10 degrees<\/strong>.<\/p>\n The Product Manual also includes a seepage test under Clause 7.14.<\/p>\n Three samples are recommended once every three months, with each variety produced during the period to be tested at least once.<\/p>\n Where a glass lid is provided, specific performance requirements apply.<\/p>\n The BIS LIMS database currently lists separate tests for:<\/p>\n These tests are associated with the relevant glass-lid performance requirements of IS 2347<\/strong>.<\/p>\n Some insulated food containers may be supplied with internal utensils.<\/p>\n The current BIS requirements include checks for:<\/p>\n The BIS LIMS database identifies these as separate testing parameters.<\/p>\n Product grouping is a critical part of the BIS certification process.<\/p>\n The current Product Manual divides products based on:<\/p>\n For each material, insulation and usage combination, the highest nominal capacity from each applicable capacity group<\/strong> is selected for independent testing. The factory test reports of other capacities intended to be covered must also be submitted.<\/p>\n The current BIS Product Manual specifies:<\/p>\n 8 Nos.<\/strong><\/p>\n as the sample size for IS 17569:2021.<\/p>\n During surveillance, BIS may also draw samples of the inner-container raw material for independent chemical-composition testing.<\/p>\n The Product Manual recommends defining the control unit as:<\/p>\n Quantity of all insulated containers of the same type, nominal capacity and usage, manufactured by the same method under similar conditions in a day.<\/strong><\/p>\n This definition is important for:<\/p>\n The BIS Product Manual expects manufacturers to implement a Quality Assurance Plan<\/strong> containing regular testing and in-process controls.<\/p>\n The manufacturer must:<\/p>\n The Product Manual expects manufacturers to establish a suitably equipped and staffed in-house laboratory for routine tests and factory-only requirements.<\/p>\n Tests that can be subcontracted may be performed through:<\/p>\n For MSME manufacturers, the Product Manual provides flexibility to use common cluster facilities, shared testing facilities or recognized\/NABL-accredited laboratories for routine testing.<\/p>\n Large-scale manufacturers are expected to maintain suitable routine-test facilities and a calibration plan, although sharing-of-testing-facilities provisions are also available according to BIS guidelines.<\/p>\n The current BIS Product Manual provides an indicative equipment list.<\/p>\n Important equipment includes:<\/p>\n The BIS Product Manual states that the equipment list is indicative and not exhaustive<\/strong>.<\/p>\n Factory assessment is an important stage of BIS certification.<\/p>\n During inspection, BIS may examine:<\/p>\n Equipment for stainless-steel fabrication, plastic moulding, welding, insulation and assembly.<\/p>\n Identification and traceability of stainless steel, plastic, glass, silicone, insulation and other components.<\/p>\n Welding arrangements and control of welding defects.<\/p>\n Vacuum or thermal insulation process and material controls.<\/p>\n Inspection of stainless-steel, plastic or glass lids and gaskets.<\/p>\n Strength and dimensional controls.<\/p>\n Availability of applicable routine testing facilities.<\/p>\n Calibration records for measuring and testing equipment.<\/p>\n Incoming, in-process and final inspections.<\/p>\n Production, test, raw-material and batch records.<\/p>\n Because these containers are intended for food storage, food-contact material conformity is an important part of the certification process.<\/p>\n The current BIS LIMS listing includes:<\/p>\n Manufacturers should maintain appropriate supplier certificates and test reports for food-contact materials and components.<\/p>\nWhat is IS 17569:2021?<\/h1>\n
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What are Insulated Containers for Food Storage?<\/h1>\n
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Types of Insulated Containers Covered<\/h1>\n
Type Based on Material<\/h2>\n
Plastic Outside and Stainless Steel Inside<\/h3>\n
Stainless Steel on Both Sides<\/h3>\n
Plastic on Both Sides<\/h3>\n
Combination of Materials<\/h3>\n
Lid or Bottom Container Variations<\/h3>\n
Glass Lid with Beading<\/h3>\n
Hot\/Cold Box with Inserts<\/h3>\n
Classification Based on Insulation<\/h1>\n
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Classification Based on Type of Use<\/h1>\n
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Capacity Groups under IS 17569:2021<\/h1>\n
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\n Group<\/th>\n Nominal Capacity<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n \n Group 1<\/td>\n Up to 1,000 ml<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Group 2<\/td>\n Above 1,000 ml and up to 5,000 ml<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n \n Group 3<\/td>\n Above 5,000 ml and up to 20,000 ml<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n Is BIS Certification Mandatory for Insulated Food Containers?<\/h1>\n
Insulated Flask, Bottles and Containers for Domestic Use QCO 2024<\/h1>\n
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BIS Certification for Insulated Containers<\/h1>\n
Who Needs BIS Certification for Insulated Food Containers?<\/h1>\n
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BIS Certification Eligibility Requirements<\/h1>\n
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BIS Certification Process for Insulated Containers<\/h1>\n
Step 1 \u2013 Product Applicability Assessment<\/h2>\n
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Step 2 \u2013 Product Classification<\/h2>\n
Step 3 \u2013 Scope and Grouping Finalisation<\/h2>\n
Step 4 \u2013 Documentation Preparation<\/h2>\n
Step 5 \u2013 Sample Preparation<\/h2>\n
Step 6 \u2013 Laboratory Testing<\/h2>\n
Step 7 \u2013 BIS Application<\/h2>\n
Step 8 \u2013 Factory Assessment<\/h2>\n
Step 9 \u2013 Observation Closure<\/h2>\n
Step 10 \u2013 BIS Licence Grant<\/h2>\n
Step 11 \u2013 ISI Marking<\/h2>\n
Raw Material Requirements for Insulated Food Containers<\/h1>\n
Welding Electrode<\/h3>\n
Inner Container<\/h3>\n
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Outer Container and Lid<\/h3>\n
Stainless-Steel Rim of Glass Lid<\/h3>\n
Glass Lid<\/h3>\n
Stainless-Steel Lid<\/h3>\n
Internal Utensils<\/h3>\n
Plastic Components<\/h3>\n
Insulation Material<\/h3>\n
Food-Contact Material Requirements<\/h1>\n
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BPA Requirement<\/h1>\n
Silicone Gasket Requirements<\/h1>\n
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Coating Requirements<\/h1>\n
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Capacity Test<\/h1>\n
Heat Retention Capability<\/h1>\n
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Cold Retention Capability<\/h1>\n
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Drop Impact Test<\/h1>\n
Pendulum Impact Test<\/h1>\n
Handle Strength<\/h1>\n
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Shoulder Strap Strength<\/h1>\n
Leakage Test<\/h1>\n
Joint Leak Test<\/h1>\n
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Staining Test<\/h1>\n
PUF Insulation<\/h1>\n
Shoulder Strap Length<\/h1>\n
Stability Test<\/h1>\n
Seepage Test<\/h1>\n
Glass Lid Requirements<\/h1>\n
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Internal Utensils<\/h1>\n
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Product Grouping for IS 17569:2021<\/h1>\n
Classification I \u2013 Material Type<\/h3>\n
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Classification II \u2013 Insulation Type<\/h3>\n
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Classification III \u2013 Nominal Capacity<\/h3>\n
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Classification IV \u2013 Usage<\/h3>\n
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BIS Sample Requirement<\/h1>\n
Control Unit for Insulated Containers<\/h1>\n
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Quality Assurance Plan<\/h1>\n
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In-House Testing Facilities<\/h1>\n
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Testing Equipment for IS 17569:2021<\/h1>\n
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BIS Factory Inspection for Insulated Containers<\/h1>\n
Manufacturing Machinery<\/h3>\n
Raw Material<\/h3>\n
Welding<\/h3>\n
Insulation<\/h3>\n
Lid and Closure<\/h3>\n
Handle and Shoulder Strap<\/h3>\n
Laboratory<\/h3>\n
Calibration<\/h3>\n
Quality Control<\/h3>\n
Records<\/h3>\n
Food Safety Testing<\/h1>\n
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Marking Requirements<\/h1>\n