NHRC Seeks Action from Health Ministry and FSSAI on Reuse of Cooking Oil Across India

The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has sent a notice to the Union Health Ministry and the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) after receiving a complaint about the widespread reuse of cooking oil in India.

Complaint Highlights Health and Environmental Risks

The complaint was filed by the founder of Sarthak Samudayik Vikas Evam Jan Kalyan Sanstha, a Bhopal based organisation. It raised serious concerns that many small restaurants, roadside food stalls, and local vendors continue to reuse or resell used cooking oil, even though it is unsafe for consumption. According to the complaint, consuming reused oil can lead to severe health problems, including cancer and heart diseases. Moreover, when this oil is carelessly discarded, it pollutes water and soil, creating further environmental hazards.

FSSAI’s RUCO Campaign Under Scrutiny

The complainant noted that despite the FSSAI’s “RUCO Repurpose Used Cooking Oil” campaign, which aims to convert used oil into bio-diesel, the rules are not being properly implemented at the ground level. He urged the NHRC to treat this issue as a human rights concern, as it directly affects public health and safety. The complaint also called for stricter enforcement of regulations, the setting up of authorised oil recycling centres, and public awareness campaigns to educate people about the dangers of reused oil.

Taking note of the complaint under Section 12 of the Protection of Human Rights Act, 1993, an NHRC bench led by Member Priyank Kanoongo directed the authorities to investigate the issue. The Commission has instructed the Chairman of FSSAI and the Health Ministry to conduct an inquiry into the allegations and to submit a detailed state wise report. Additionally, the NHRC has asked for an Action Taken Report (ATR) to be submitted within two weeks, so that the Commission can review the measures being taken to address this growing public health concern.

A Call for Stronger Enforcement

This move by the NHRC highlights the urgent need for better monitoring and regulation of cooking oil usage across India. Effective enforcement of FSSAI guidelines and increased public awareness are seen as crucial steps toward protecting consumer health and the environment.

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