Mumbai: Maharashtra’s Food and Drug Administration (FDA) is set to intensify its food-safety campaign with edible oil as its next major focus, warning that unsafe practices across production, packaging, distribution and use could pose serious health risks.

FDA Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe said the action would be carried out under the state’s “Safe Food, Safe Maharashtra” campaign, with violations attracting stringent action.

Loose oil comes under scrutiny

Mundhe raised concerns over the sale of loose edible oil, saying such products may not provide clear information about their source or date of manufacture.

The lack of traceability can make it difficult for authorities to identify the origin of a product and take timely action if a food poisoning incident occurs.

The FDA plans to examine compliance across the entire supply chain, from manufacturing and distribution to retail sale. Manufacturers will also be required to hold the licences prescribed under applicable regulations.

Reused cooking oil flagged as major concern

Repeatedly reusing cooking oil was identified as one of the most serious practices requiring attention.

Mundhe described the practice as “most dangerous” and indicated that food businesses using cooking oil repeatedly would also come under scrutiny.

He said the campaign would not be limited to conventional cases of adulteration or the black market, but would cover broader food-safety violations involving edible oil.

Packaging and health risks examined

The commissioner also highlighted concerns over the reuse of tins for packaging edible oil, saying such practices are not permitted under applicable rules.

He warned that unsafe practices involving edible oil could create serious public-health concerns. According to him, prolonged consumption of unsafe substances can contribute to health problems, including heart disease and an increased risk of cancer, while potentially affecting children’s cognitive development.

Strict action promised

Mundhe said violators could face stringent penalties, including life imprisonment and a fine of Rs 10 lakh.

The proposed focus will cover manufacturing, licensing, packaging, distribution, retail and the way cooking oil is used by food establishments.

The campaign is aimed at improving compliance and traceability while ensuring that consumers receive safer food products.