SEA Urges Crackdown on Social Media Misinformation on Refined Edible Oils

The Solvent Extractors' Association (SEA) has called on India's Central Consumer Protection Authority and food safety regulator, FSSAI, to tackle misleading information circulating on social media about refined edible oils.

A letter from SEA highlighted a viral video by the Instagram account @satvicmovement that labels these oils as 'chemical-laden' and 'toxic', claims the association describes as 'alarming and factually incorrect.'

SEA warned that such misinformation undermines consumer confidence and threatens farmers' livelihoods, urging for evidence-based public information to counter unfounded doubts.

The association refuted claims made in the video, releasing an explanatory note to educate the public on the scientific and regulatory processes in oil refining, stressing that 85% of India's edible oil consumption relies on heavily regulated refined oils like palm, soybean, and sunflower.

SEA also defended the use of food-grade hexane in oil extraction, stating it is globally accepted when meeting FSSAI norms. Refining, they said, ensures oil safety and longevity, following strict FSSAI regulations.

SEA concluded that alarmist social media messages jeopardize the agri-economy, urging continued consumer trust in regulated practices.

(With inputs from agencies.)