In order to successfully implement the new Mission on Edible Oils-Oilseeds (NMEO-Oilseeds), the Union Agriculture Ministry has undertaken its first-ever survey to evaluate edible oil consumption trends in India, according to a senior government official
Starting on January 9 and lasting for 45 days, the questionnaire-based survey will end on February 23. India, the largest edible oil importer and consumer in the world, launched the program because it lacked current data on consumption trends. According to industry sources, India’s per capita yearly edible oil consumption has increased to above 20 kilograms, well beyond the 12 kg and 13 kg levels advised by the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), respectively.
Due to factors including urbanization, changing food habits, and increased earnings, this represents a significant increase from 2.9 kg in 1950–60.
The extensive survey asks about demographic information, place of living, and kind of residence in addition to focusing on household cooking oil preferences. It examines particular topics such the kinds of oils used, how often they are deep-fried, seasonal consumption trends, and elements that affect oil choice, such as cost and health advantages.
Concerns over oils in packaged goods, views for oil reuse, and public awareness of health hazards such trans fats are also evaluated by the questionnaire.
It also looks at how consumers behave in relation to ads, how they read labels, and whether they are prepared to spend more for healthier oil options.
The results of the survey will be used to identify priority oilseeds for the NMEO-Oilseeds initiative, which is set to begin in July for the upcoming kharif (summer) season. The mission intends to boost domestic oilseed output from 39 million tonnes in 2022–2023 to 69.7 million tonnes by 2030–2031 with a financial investment of Rs 10,103 crore spread over seven years.
India now imports between 55 and 60 percent of its edible oil needs from nations like Russia, Ukraine, Argentina, Brazil, Indonesia, and Malaysia. India imported about 15.96 million tons of edible oil during the 2023–24 oil marketing year.
