According to industry reports, per capita annual consumption of edible oil has increased to more than 20 kg in India. Photo credit: M. Govalsan
According to a senior government official, the Union Ministry of Agriculture has launched the first ever edible oil consumption pattern in India with a view to effectively implementing the new mission on edible oils and oilseeds (NMEO and oilseeds). An investigation has begun.
The 45-day survey-based survey, which began on January 9th, will continue until February 23rd. The initiative comes as India, the world’s largest consumer and importer of edible oil, lacks up-to-date data on consumption patterns.
“The survey aims to understand the consumption pattern and choice of edible oil, which can help in policy making,” an official told PTI.
According to industry reports, the annual per capita consumption of edible oil in India has increased to more than 20 kg, which is higher than the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) recommended limit of 12 kg and the World Health Organization (WHO) recommended limit. It weighs significantly more than 13kg.
This represents a significant increase from 2.9 kg in 1950-60 due to factors such as rising incomes, urbanization and changing dietary habits.
This comprehensive survey focuses on households’ cooking oil preferences and includes questions on demographic details, place of residence, and housing type.
We investigate specific aspects such as the type of oil used, frequency of frying, seasonal usage patterns, and factors that influence oil selection, such as health benefits and price considerations.
The survey also assesses public awareness of health risks such as trans fats, attitudes toward oil reuse, and concerns about oils in processed foods.
We also examine consumer behavior related to advertising, how they read labels, and their willingness to pay a premium for healthier oil options.
The findings will help determine priority oilseeds under the NMEO-Oilseeds program, which is scheduled to start in the next kharif (summer) season starting from July.
The mission, with an investment of Rs 10.13 billion over seven years, aims to increase domestic oilseed production from 39 million tonnes in 2022-23 to 69.7 million tonnes by 2030-31.
Currently, India imports 55-60% of its edible oil requirements from countries such as Indonesia, Malaysia, Argentina, Brazil, Russia, and Ukraine. In the oil market year 2023-2024, India’s edible oil imports amounted to around 15.96 million tonnes.
issued – January 20, 2025 10:48 PM IST
