The Solvent Extractors’ Association of India (SEA) has urged the Central Consumer Protection Authority (CCPA) and the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) to take immediate action against a surge of misleading content on social media that, it says, is eroding public confidence in refined edible oils and jeopardizing the livelihoods of millions connected to India’s agri-economy.
In a letter addressed to both regulatory bodies, SEA cited a viral video posted by the Instagram account @satvicmovement, which labels refined oils as “chemical-laden” and “toxic.” The association slammed the video for spreading alarmist and factually incorrect claims, stating that such content undermines trust in a sector governed by strict scientific and regulatory frameworks.
“The video has gained widespread traction, creating confusion among consumers and casting unfounded doubts on the safety of refined edible oils, which constitute nearly 85% of India’s edible oil consumption,” SEA said in its statement.
SEA emphasized that refined oils—including palm, soybean, sunflower, rice bran, and cottonseed—are produced under stringent FSSAI regulations and adhere to Codex Alimentarius standards accepted globally. The association reiterated that the refining process is not only scientifically validated but essential for removing natural impurities and ensuring product safety, stability, and shelf life.
Addressing concerns raised in the video, SEA defended the use of food-grade hexane in oil extraction, clarifying that it is fully regulated and safely removed during processing. The final products, SEA noted, comply with the FSSAI-prescribed residue limit of 5 parts per million (ppm), which is well within internationally recognized safety thresholds.
To counter misinformation, SEA has also released a detailed explanatory note to clarify the science behind edible oil refining and reassure consumers. The document outlines the safety of refining processes, such as deodorization and solvent extraction, and reinforces industry compliance with Indian food safety laws.
Warning of broader implications, SEA stated that unsubstantiated claims on social media not only threaten consumer confidence but also pose risks to India’s agricultural economy, particularly for oilseed farmers and stakeholders in the edible oil supply chain.
“The spread of such misinformation has the potential to harm a regulated, scientifically monitored industry. Regulators must step in to ensure the public receives accurate, evidence-based information,” the statement concluded.