India: A Growth Frontier for Sustainable Palm Oil By Dr. Puah Chiew Wei
India is the most populous country in the world, with a population exceeding 1.46 billion people. The rapid population growth presents significant opportunities for potential growth, particularly in the demand for both food and non-food products across the nation. Thus, it is essential to develop strategies and policies through a holistic and comprehensive approach to ensure security in both food and non-food sectors including energy.
In the food sector, edible oils are a staple in the Indian diet, commonly used for cooking, frying and food processing. However, India relies heavily on imports of edible oils to meet its growing demand taking into consideration the domestic production can only satisfy a fraction of the total need, resulting in India becoming the largest importer of edible oils in the world and the top importer of palm oil.
Palm oil plays a crucial role in supporting the demand for edible oil in India as it is the most widely produced edible oil in the world, accounts for about 35% of global vegetable oils production. The unique properties of palm oil make it a functional oil in various food applications and a valuable ingredient for the food industry because it enables an enormous range of manufacturing processes at no health risk to consumers. Palm oil has better oxidative stability and is resistant to the formation of oxidised polymers, making it the preferred choice for cooking oil in India.
One of the health-related concerning palm oil in India is associated with the claim that palm oil is unhealthy due to its high level of saturated fatty acids. This claim is misleading and creating negative image for palm oil as a food source and food ingredient. Palm oil contains a balanced proportion of unsaturated and saturated fatty acids at about 50% each. Studies showed that palm oil behaves more like a monounsaturated fat and has no adverse impact on blood cholesterol levels. In addition, scientific evidence has confirmed that moderate consumption of palm oil is no worse than other cooking oils.
More importantly, palm oil does not require hydrogenation for use as a fat component in food, avoiding the formation of trans fatty acids which have been proven to have detrimental effects on health. The Food Safety and Standards (Prohibition and Restrictions on Sales) Second Amendment Regulations, 2021 of India stipulated that all food products in which edible oils and fats are used as an ingredient should not contain industrial trans fatty acids more than 2% (by mass) of the total oils/fats present in the product, on and from 1 January 2022. Therefore, palm oil and its products are good alternatives to replace trans fatty acids for formulation of trans fatty acids-free food products.
Red palm oil, which is commercially available, is rich in phytonutrients, including carotenoids, tocols (tocopherols and tocotrienols), phytosterols and squalene which have gained significant attention due to their nutritional benefits. It is the richest natural source of carotenoids, particularly alpha- and beta-carotene, biologically active pro-vitamin A and a powerful antioxidant. Palm oil also contains tocotrienols, antioxidants that are several times more potent than tocopherols and have been proven scientifically to possess anti-inflammatory and cholesterol-lowering properties. Therefore, the consumption of nutritious red palm oil can provide beneficial antioxidants to the Indian population, supporting better overall health.
Palm oil is also an important raw material for non-food applications due to its versatility. Oleochemicals industry is one of the industries that relies on the use of palm oil as raw materials in a wide range of industrial and consumer products to replace petroleum-based chemicals. The physical and chemical properties of palm-based oleochemicals enable the manufacturing and production of many products such as personal care products and household products. The growing demand driven by consumers' increasing preference for 'natural' products will support the use of palm-based oleochemicals which are renewable and biodegradable alternative to petroleum-based chemicals. The demand for oleochemicals in India is expected to grow in tandem with the positive economic growth and socio-economic development.
Palm oil is also the most widely used feedstock for the production of biodiesel, with the share of about 32% of the global production. This reflected its crucial role in supporting global energy security. It is therefore important for India to leverage on the use of palm oil as a renewable and sustainable energy source.
Indonesia and Malaysia, the two largest palm oil producing countries, are committed to produce sustainable palm oil compliance to international and national standards, as well as committed to international agenda on combating climate change and global warming. Both countries have put in place policy framework and regulations to ensure the sustainable development of the oil palm industry balancing the conservation of forest and biodiversity.
The implementation of mandatory national sustainable certification schemes namely, Indonesian Sustainable Palm Oil (ISPO) and Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil (MSPO) are important milestones of the industry, making palm oil the only vegetable oil subjected to stringent sustainable requirements vis-à-vis other vegetable oils. The industry focusses on increasing productivity through good agricultural practices and better planting materials without opening new land.
The continuous improvement, technological advancements and innovation, coupled with the supports of relevant stakeholders including the Governments of palm oil producing countries have driven the positive development of the industry. The positive prospects in India are expected to be a pivotal growth frontier for the oil palm industry.
The author is the Director of Strategy and Policy, Council of Palm Oil Producing Countries (CPOPC).
Dr. Puah Chiew Wei
About the Author:
Dr. Puah Chiew Wei is the Director of Strategy and Policy of the Council of Palm Oil Producing Countries (CPOPC). She graduated from the University of Malaya, Malaysia with a Bachelor of Science (Major in Applied Chemistry and Minor in Statistics) and Ph.D. in Chemistry. She has more than 20 years of working experience in the Malaysian oil palm industry. Dr. Puah has authored and co-authored more than 180 publications in journals, book chapters, technical publications and reports as well as presentations in conferences and seminars at the national and international levels. She has five (5) patents filed and granted based on her research findings in the palm oil research including one technology that has been commercialised.
Disclaimer:
This content is sponsored and does not reflect the views or opinions of IE Online Media Services Pvt Ltd. No journalist is involved in creating sponsored material and it does not imply any endorsement whatsoever by the editorial team. IE Online Media Services takes no responsibility for the content that appears in sponsored articles and the consequences thereof, directly, indirectly or in any manner. Viewer discretion is advised.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
The Hindu
an hour ago
- The Hindu
Diet is both cause and cure for MASLD, a liver condition: experts at The Hindu-Naruvi event
As against a 30% global incidence, 40% of the Indian population is affected by metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease (MASLD), a liver condition that remains a silent pandemic. Gastroenterologists on Sunday (June 8, 2025) discussed this disease linked to lifestyle at The Hindu-Naruvi Hospitals webinar series under the 'Healthy India Happy India' initiative. Experts emphasised that weight reduction is the key to treating this non-alcoholic fatty liver condition triggered by unhealthy lifestyle and metabolic risk factors such as obesity, Type 2 diabetes and insulin resistance. Speaking at the webinar on MASLD, Ashok Chacko, senior consultant and head, Department of Gastroenterology and Liver Diseases at the Naruvi Hospitals, said the liver condition largely remains undiagnosed in 53% of Indian population who are at higher risk due to co-morbidities, because there are hardly any symptoms till the liver fails. 'Fatigue or tiredness and a mild pain on the right side of the abdomen could be the only early symptoms and often ignored. MASLD is a lifestyle disease caused due to increased intake of food and decreased exercise, and co-morbidities impact the disease progression,' he said. Though the disease is static or reversed in 80% to 85% cases, MASLD is not harmless and cannot be ignored. Prof. Chacko said 15% of all patients develop steatotic hepatitis (inflammation of the liver), which takes seven years to develop, and 5% develop liver cirrhosis, which takes another 25 years. 'A few also get liver cancer but due to the long timespan and lack of symptoms, people neglect it,' he said. Screening must Referring to common doubts and concerns about fatty liver and determining the risk of developing complications, R.S. Arun, Head of Medical Gastroenterology, Madras Medical Mission, Chennai, said targeted screening of those with high risk factors, and surveillance of disease progression helped in dealing with complications. He recommended blood tests and ultrasound every six months, and a non-invasive fibroscan every one to three years. He reiterated that every person living with diabetes or pre-diabetes, hypertension, high lipid profile, elevated liver enzymes, family history of heart disease and liver cirrhosis should undergo regular check-ups. While the treatment of MASLD starts with managing the risk factors, maintaining ideal weight and healthy lifestyle with nutrient-dense diet, adequate sleep, hydration, and following an exercise prescription is the key to reversing fatty liver, said Rabindranath E., consultant in medical gastroenterology with Naruvi Hospitals, Vellore. Diet is both the cause and cure for MASLD, he said. The mantra is to reduce the portion size and calories, and stick to a protein-rich, low-carb diet. 'Consistency in physical activity such as walking, jogging, cycling and swimming for at least 12 weeks will start reaping benefits,' said Dr. Rabindranath. He also recommended quitting smoking and alcohol, and following customised and intermittent fasting to reduce liver fat. 'But do so after consulting a doctor if you have advanced liver disease or other co-morbidities to ensure safety,' he said. This webinar can be viewed at
News18
4 hours ago
- News18
Can Masturbation Actually Improve Your Relationship?
Last Updated: Masturbation, a topic frequently shrouded in privacy, holds potential beyond solitary pleasure Sex may permeate our popular culture, but conversations about it are still associated with stigma and shame in Indian households. As a result, most individuals dealing with sexual health issues or trying to find information about sex often resort to unverified online sources or follow the unscientific advice of their friends. To address the widespread misinformation about sex, is running this weekly sex column, titled 'Let's Talk Sex'. We hope to initiate conversations about sex through this column and address sexual health issues with scientific insight and nuance. In this article, we will explain how personal desires might not only enrich your individual well-being but also strengthen your relationship. In the intricate tapestry of human relationships, intimacy often emerges as a cornerstone of connectivity and fulfilment. As you navigate the complexities of partnership, you may wonder about the role personal habits play in enhancing mutual satisfaction. Masturbation, a topic frequently shrouded in privacy, holds potential beyond solitary pleasure. Engaging in masturbation triggers the release of several hormones, including dopamine and oxytocin, often referred to as the 'feel-good" hormones. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that plays a critical role in the brain's reward system, enhancing pleasure and motivation. Meanwhile, oxytocin, sometimes called the 'cuddle hormone", is associated with social bonding and relaxation. These hormones can lead to enhanced mood and reduced stress, potentially fostering a more positive outlook in your relationship. Masturbation also has notable physical benefits. It can increase blood flow, which contributes to improved cardiovascular health. The endorphins released during masturbation act as natural pain relievers, potentially alleviating minor aches and discomforts. Furthermore, the relaxation induced by hormonal release during orgasm can lead to better sleep quality. Adequate rest is fundamental in maintaining emotional balance, which is crucial for healthy interpersonal relationships. advetisement Through masturbation, individuals gain a deeper understanding of their own bodies and sexual preferences. This self-awareness can translate into more confident and satisfying intimate experiences with partners. Knowing what brings you pleasure allows for more open and effective communication, ultimately enhancing mutual satisfaction within the relationship. By exercising sexual autonomy, individuals can nurture self-confidence, which often reflects positively in their interactions with partners. In an era where stress and anxiety are prevalent, masturbation serves as a natural stress-relief mechanism. The process helps in reducing cortisol levels, the stress hormone, thereby calming the mind and promoting relaxation. This stress reduction can lead to improved interactions with your partner, as you are likely to be more present and patient. Incorporating masturbation into a self-care routine can act as a proactive measure to maintain mental well-being, positively impacting the dynamics of your relationship. Masturbation and Relationship Satisfaction Masturbation is often viewed merely as a personal activity, yet its potential impact on relationship satisfaction is increasingly being recognized. Engaging in self-pleasure can help individuals better understand their own bodies, leading to improved sexual self-awareness. By discovering personal preferences and what brings physical pleasure, individuals can communicate these insights to their partners more effectively. This open dialogue fosters intimacy and mutual satisfaction, forming a foundation for a more fulfilling sexual relationship. One of the key pillars of a healthy relationship is communication. When partners are open about their solo sexual activities, it can demystify the subject of masturbation, reducing shame or taboo. This transparency encourages an open-minded approach toward sexual exploration within the relationship. Discussing masturbation can also break down barriers, leading to more candid conversations about sexual needs and desires. Such openness not only enhances trust but also aligns sexual expectations between partners, contributing to overall relationship harmony. Surprisingly, engaging in regular masturbation might actually increase your desire for partnered sexual activities. This is because masturbation aids in maintaining sexual health by keeping sexual organs active, boosting libido, and releasing sexual tension. When partners feel sexually satisfied individually, they are more likely to bring that energy into shared experiences. This creates a positive cycle where self-pleasure complements rather than competes with partnered intimacy, potentially leading to an enriched sexual relationship. Can Masturbation Improve Your Relationship? Masturbation, can surprisingly contribute to strengthening relationships in various ways. By engaging in self-exploration, individuals gain a deeper understanding of their own bodies and desires. This personal insight can be a powerful tool for enhancing intimacy with a partner. When you know what brings you pleasure, you are better equipped to communicate these preferences, fostering a more fulfilling and open sexual relationship. advetisement Moreover, masturbation can release stress and tension, which can positively impact your overall mood and behaviour. Being more relaxed and content enables you to be more present and emotionally available to your partner, enhancing the quality of your interactions. Such stress-relief benefits can significantly contribute to a harmonious relationship dynamic. Lastly, maintaining personal sexual health can contribute to individual well-being, which inevitably benefits the relationship as a whole. Masturbation offers a safe outlet for sexual expression, reducing anxiety and promoting self-awareness. A healthier, happier individual is more likely to contribute positively to a relationship, creating a balanced and supportive partnership. By normalizing conversations around masturbation, couples can break down barriers that often lead to dissatisfaction or misunderstandings. This transparency nurtures a climate of mutual respect and acceptance, essential components of any healthy relationship. Conclusion top videos View All In conclusion, embracing masturbation as a natural and beneficial aspect of your relationship can lead to enhanced mutual understanding and satisfaction. By breaking the stigma and openly discussing individual needs and preferences, you foster a more intimate, honest connection with your partner. Self-exploration not only supports personal well-being but also enriches your shared sexual experiences, creating a more fulfilling partnership. As you navigate the complexities of intimacy, remember that recognizing and respecting each other's sexuality in all its forms can be a powerful tool in strengthening your bond, ultimately contributing to a healthier and more resilient relationship. About the Author Prof (Dr) Saransh Jain The News18 Lifestyle section brings you the latest on health, fashion, travel, food, and culture — with wellness tips, celebrity style, travel inspiration, and recipes. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated! tags : lets talk sex Location : New Delhi, India, India First Published: June 08, 2025, 19:42 IST News lifestyle Let's Talk Sex | Can Masturbation Actually Improve Your Relationship?
Mint
6 hours ago
- Mint
How to manage high blood pressure with simple lifestyle tweaks
Just under a month ago, the world celebrated Hypertension Day on May 17. Considering an even more recent report published by online medical site Healio, Hypertension unawareness rose from 2013 to 2023, you might reason that having a day just for this condition that silently creeps on us is essential. Furthermore, a May 2024 WHO (World Health Organisation) report states that Indians have been consuming nearly twice the recommended amount of sodium (10.98 gms). And this is making the population more susceptible to high blood pressure (hypertension). WHO's recommendation is to use Lower Sodium Salt Substitutes (LSSS). Unavoidable as hypertension or blood pressure is, Lounge spoke to experts to know if there are simple tweaks you could make to your daily to control this condition before it turns severe. Also read: A guide to understanding inflammation and ways to combat it's negative effects 'While the risk of developing hypertension increases as one ages, recent research has revealed alarming statistics about its prevalence among Indian adolescents, with rates as high as 25 per cent. That's why it's important for people with a family history of diabetes and hypertension to start getting regular BP checks in their mid-20s. Others can wait until their early 30s to start testing for hypertension," says Dr Anuja Agarwala, vice president, Indian Dietetic Association, Delhi. According to Agarwala, parents should be aware that hypertension can exist in children too. So, if high blood pressure and cardiovascular diseases run in the family, schedule regular BP checks for your children too. SYMPTOMS 'About a decade back, hypertension would happen to those in their 50s. These days, due to high stress, lifestyle, genetic factors and addictions, people are getting hypertension at even 28. And the risk is higher if you're obese," notes Dr Swarup Swaraj Pal, head of cardiovascular and thoracic surgery at Gleneagles Hospital, Mumbai. Pal explains that hypertension happens when calcium gets deposited in the lining of the blood vessels, causing it to harden. This adds pressure to the heart as it's pumping harder. If left unattended, this can eventually result in cardiovascular disease. The most common symptoms of hypertension, according to Pal, are sleep deprivation, an inability to focus, throbbing headaches and fluctuation in energy levels. More serious symptoms could include blacking out and being on the verge of collapsing. 'Get your blood pressure checked every three-six months, especially if you're above 30," he advises, and reiterates that the risk of one being affected by hypertension is high if you have parents who are obese or have a history of heart disease. 'While women are more or less protected by the hormone estrogen till age 45 or 50, after menopause, they too are at a risk of suffering from hypertension," Pal adds. Hypertension, Agarwala says, manifests in symptoms as small as headaches. 'What makes it particularly dangerous is that it does not cause specific symptoms until it's too late. If not managed well, hypertension can lead to serious health issues, such as heart disease, stroke and kidney disease," she cautions. Also read: Why short bursts of cold showers are good for you WAYS TO MANAGE HYPERTENSION Apart from medication, Agarwala's top tips for managing hypertension naturally include quitting drinking and smoking; getting adequate sleep for about eight hours; reducing exposure to stressful environments– if your work environment is stressful, step out every four hours or so; and exercise three-four times a week. She cannot stress enough about the importance of physical exercises. 'It is important to make time for it at least 3-4 times a week. But those who are unable to dedicate time for exercise should try and include more walking into their daily routine. Walking 10,000 steps a day is considered beneficial for your cardiovascular health." It's also crucial to be aware of how sodium insidiously adds up in your diet. It might be the chutney you eat at lunch or those rice crackers you have at tea. According to Agarwala, including fruits and vegetables in your diet is another effective way to maintain healthy blood pressure. GET CREATIVE WITH INGREDIENTS Mysuru-based Dr. Jamuna Prakash, former professor, food science and nutrition, University of Mysore, says, managing hypertension isn't about entirely cutting out namkeens us Indians are so fond of from our diet, but consuming it judiciously. 'Whilst cooking, pairing salt with low-sodium seasonings like MSG (monosodium glutamate), along with an assortment of herbs and spices, can bring out an ideal balance of umami, saltiness, and other traditional Indian flavors—making for a satisfying meal without the need for additional sodium," she says. Adding smokiness to your paneer and chicken preparations can provide additional complexity to the flavor profile of the dish, says Mumbai-based chef Ajay Chopra. 'Borrowing from culinary practices around the world, like using kombu or seaweed broth, as done in Japan, can create umami in certain soups and curries. Adding lemon juice is another way to add flavour to your dishes, and stimulate your taste buds," he notes. Sumitra Nair is an independent journalist based in Kochi. Also read: Anxiety attacks: When should you get treated?
