Karnataka Intensifies Trans Fat Reduction Drive; Over 45 Lakh Litres Used Oil Collected
From roadside eateries to large food manufacturers, Karnataka is stepping up efforts to reduce the use of industrially produced trans fats — a major contributor to heart disease and other non-communicable illnesses.
At a state-level sensitisation programme on eliminating industrially produced trans fats, held in Bengaluru on July 21, the Food Safety and Drug Administration (FSDA) Commissioner said Karnataka would intensify surveillance, inspection, and enforcement to ensure compliance with food safety regulations aimed at reducing trans fats in the food supply chain.
The programme brought together Food Safety Department officials, food business operators, edible oil manufacturers, industry representatives, and public health experts to discuss ways to strengthen implementation of the regulations.
Why Trans Fats Matter
Officials pointed out that industrially produced trans fats, commonly found in partially hydrogenated oils used in some processed and fried foods, are among the most harmful dietary risk factors. Excess consumption has been linked to cardiovascular diseases, coronary heart disease, obesity, metabolic disorders, and adverse reproductive health outcomes.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), industrial trans fats are responsible for more than 278,000 deaths globally every year, including nearly 500,000 premature deaths from coronary heart disease. The WHO has called for their complete elimination from the global food supply chain.
India has adopted regulations limiting industrially produced trans fats to less than 2% in fats and oils, and Karnataka plans to strengthen compliance through enhanced surveillance, laboratory monitoring, risk-based inspections, and stricter enforcement across the food supply chain.
Focus on Used Cooking Oil
The state has expanded awareness and capacity-building initiatives. More than 52,000 food business operators and professionals have been trained on safe food practices and trans-fat regulations.
Officials said the Repurpose Used Cooking Oil (RUCO) initiative has gained momentum, with 45.87 lakh litres (over 4.5 million litres) of used cooking oil collected across Karnataka between 2024 and 2026. The initiative seeks to prevent repeated use of cooking oil by diverting used oil for industrial purposes, such as biodiesel production, instead of allowing it to re-enter the food chain.
Enforcement and Awareness
Enforcement drives during the period resulted in penalties amounting to ₹28.91 lakh for violation of food safety norms. Awareness campaigns have been carried out through print, electronic and digital media.
The programme highlighted technical support from Vision for Social Development and Resolve to Save Lives in strengthening capacity building and evidence-based action on trans-fat elimination.
Officials said eliminating industrially produced trans fats would require sustained cooperation between regulators, the food industry and consumers, adding that Karnataka remained committed to creating a healthier food environment and reducing the burden of diet-related diseases.
