Date:03/04/2006 URL: http://www.thehindu.com/2006/04/03/stories/2006040317250800.htm

Tamil Nadu - Chennai

Plan to sensitise people to edible oil contents

Corporate Reporter

Association seeks Government's help

CHENNAI: The Tamil Nadu Oil and Seeds Association is seeking the support of the State Government in creating awareness among consumers of the contents in edible oil sold, particularly in the loose form.

According to K. Paramasivam, President of the association, the edible oil market in the State was growing at 30 per cent annually. Out of the 4.5 lakh tonnes consumed in the State, only 1.5 lakh tonnes is produced indigenously.

A major quantum of oil marketed in the State is RBD palm oil. This is derived by refining crude palm oil imported from Malaysia and Indonesia, Mr. Paramasivam said.

Because of high import duties only a small quantity of refined, bleached and deodorised palmolein is imported and marketed as RBD palmolein, he said.

While refining the imported crude palmoil some domestic refiners leave the stearin (fat) content in the oil more than in the prescribed limits.

Health hazard

This `refined' oil, sold in the market, is not good for health, Mr. Paramasivam pointed out.