Demand for edible oil increased in India, per capita consumption more than 20 kg, Agriculture Ministry started survey

New Delhi: The Union Agriculture Ministry has launched its first survey to assess edible oil consumption patterns in India. Its objective is to effectively implement the new mission on edible oils and oilseeds. A senior government official gave this information. This 45-day questionnaire-based survey, which started on January 9, will continue till February 23. This initiative has been taken at a time when India, the world's largest edible oil consumer and importer, lacks recent data on its consumption patterns. The official said the objective of the survey is to understand the consumption pattern and preference of edible oils, which will help in policy decisions.

According to industry reports, the per capita annual consumption of edible oil in India has exceeded 20 kg, much higher than the recommended limits of 12 kg by the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) and 13 kg by the World Health Organization (WHO). Is. This represents a considerable increase from 2.9 kg in 1950–60, driven by factors such as rising incomes, urbanization and changing dietary habits.

Survey is based on oil for domestic use

The comprehensive survey focuses on household cooking oil preferences and includes questions about demographic details, residence and residence type. It explores specific aspects such as types of oils used, frequency of frying, seasonal usage patterns and factors influencing oil selection, including health benefits and cost considerations. The questionnaire also assesses public awareness of health risks such as trans fats, attitudes toward reusing oil, and concerns about oils in packaged foods. Additionally, it examines consumer behavior related to advertisements, label-reading practices, and willingness to pay premium prices for healthy oil alternatives.

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India's edible oil import nears 59.6 lakh tonnes

The results of the survey will help determine priority oilseeds under the NMEO-Oilseeds Programme, to be introduced in the upcoming Kharif (summer) season starting from July. The mission, with a financial outlay of Rs 10,103 crore over seven years, aims to increase domestic oilseed production from 3.9 crore tonnes in FY 2022-23 to 6.97 crore tonnes by 2030-31. India currently imports 55-60 per cent of its edible oil requirements from several other countries including Indonesia, Malaysia, Argentina, Brazil, Russia and Ukraine. In the oil business year 2023-24, India's edible oil imports reached approximately 1 crore 59.6 lakh tonnes.