What is an implied warranty?

An implied warranty refers to an assurance that a product meets certain minimum standards of quality and performance, even if this warranty is not explicitly stated in writing. It is grounded in the principle that goods should be fit for the ordinary purposes for which they are used. This protects consumers by ensuring that when they purchase goods, they can expect them to function as intended and be safe for use.

In the context of the options provided, the correct choice emphasizes the requirement for products to meet specific standards, thereby affirming the inherent expectations associated with their use. This concept plays a significant role in consumer protection by holding sellers accountable for the quality of their products, even in the absence of formalized agreements. The other options do not capture the essence of what an implied warranty truly is. For instance, a legally stated warranty pertains to explicit terms laid out by a seller, while an optional warranty means that a manufacturer does not have a legal obligation to provide one. A consumer guarantee against fraud, while important, does not encapsulate the fundamental characteristics of implied warranties.