Ban on Loose Edible Oil Sale

Tukaram Mundhe’s New ‘Surgical Strike’ on Food Adulterators

Mumbai, August 21: Following a major crackdown on adulteration in milk, paneer, and other food items, Maharashtra Food and Drug Administration (FDA) Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe has now turned his focus toward edible oil an essential component in every household kitchen. To put an end to practices that compromise public health, he has announced an immediate and complete state-wide ban on the sale of loose edible oil.

As part of the recent ‘Safe Food, Safe Maharashtra’ campaign, state-wide inspections by the FDA uncovered alarming irregularities in the edible oil business. Several vendors were found operating without valid official licenses. The inspections also revealed widespread practices such as selling expired oil, hiding the original source, and illegally mixing unauthorized substances into mustard oil. Additionally, loose oil was found to contain hazardous levels of trans fats exceeding permissible limits. Transporting oil in unhygienic, rusted tins or low-quality plastic containers further posed severe health hazards to consumers.

To curb these growing malpractices, Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe issued a special enforcement order. Under these new regulations, no retail or wholesale vendor in the state will be permitted to sell loose oil to consumers directly from large tins or containers. Strict directives have also been issued warning vendors against purchasing unsealed oil or containers with tampered seals.

Up to 10 Lakh Fine and Jail Time for Violation

Commissioner Tukaram Mundhe issued a stern warning that any trader found violating these regulations by selling loose or adulterated oil could face imprisonment for up to 7 years and fines up to ₹10 lakh. The administration has urged citizens to prioritize their health by purchasing and using only certified, factory-sealed edible oil.