The association notes that labels like ‘palm oil free’ overshadow credible dietary guidance and have become a marketing tool, especially in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector
Raising concerns over the increasing use of ‘no palm oil’ labels on consumer products, the Ind Food and Beverage Association (IFBA) has stated that these are a misleading marketing gimmick. IFBA noted that in today’s digital era, food choices are often driven by social media trends rather than scientific evidence.
Despite being consumed in India since the 19th century, palm oil continues to be misunderstood due to selective branding tactics that exploit health-related fears, the association added. IFBA cautioned consumers against taking health advice from influencers who amplify half-truths without nutritional expertise.
“Palm oil has a recognised role in a healthy and balanced diet. Despite this, labels such as ‘no palm oil’ mislead consumers by prioritising marketing over science. These narratives distract the importance of overall nutritional balance and can undermine India’s efforts toward self-reliance, ultimately harming all stakeholders, from farmers and producers to consumers and the national economy,” stated Deepak Jolly, Chairperson, IFBA.
The association said that labels like ‘palm oil free’ overshadow credible dietary guidance and have become a marketing tool, especially in the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) sector, to tap into consumer fears. The association added that with India consuming 26 million tonne of edible oil annually, including nine million tonne of palm oil, this trend has fuelled misconceptions and raised questions about whether excluding palm oil is genuinely beneficial or simply a tactic with unintended socio-economic consequences.
“The dietary guidelines for Indians, 2024 of the ICMR-National Institute of Nutrition clearly acknowledge the role of tocotrienols in palm oil in lowering cholesterol and supporting heart health. It recommends a rotation of edible oils, including palm oil, for a balanced fatty acid profile. This is science, not speculation,” stated Shilpa Agrawal, Director, Scientific and Regulatory Affairs, IFBA.
Contrary to popular belief, countries worldwide are now promoting sustainable palm oil production. The Indian government has taken several steps to enhance domestic edible oil output, including the launch of the National Mission on Edible Oils – Oil Palm (NMEO-OP) in 2021 with an outlay of Rs 11,040 crore to boost oil palm cultivation, the association emphasised.
