Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation Enforces Strict Rules on Cooking Oil Reuse
The Ahmedabad Municipal Corporation (AMC) has taken a decisive step to combat the unhealthy practice of reusing cooking oil in food establishments. In a move aimed at safeguarding public health, the AMC has issued a new mandate targeting food outlets that sell fried snacks and other items. This regulation specifically applies to units that consume 50 litres or more of cooking oil per day.
Key Requirements for Large Food Units
Under the new rules, these large units are required to install a total polar compounds (TPC) tester machine and maintain daily records of oil usage. The AMC has identified 43 such units that meet the 50-litre threshold, and they have been given a one-month deadline to comply with these regulations. The announcement was made during a meeting of the AMC's standing committee on Wednesday.
Devang Dani, chairman of the standing committee, emphasized the importance of this initiative. "Citizens' health is our top priority," he stated. "When cooking oil is repeatedly used for frying, its physical and chemical properties undergo significant changes, leading to the formation of TPCs, which are extremely harmful to human health." He further noted that the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has set a maximum TPC limit of 25% in cooking oil to ensure safety.
Detailed Compliance Guidelines
Dani outlined the specific requirements for food business operators (FBOs) affected by this mandate:
- All FBOs using 50 litres or more of oil daily must procure a digital TPC tester machine.
- Daily records must be maintained, including the date, quantity of used oil, TPC reading, and the name of the authorized disposal agency.
- Cooking oil should not be heated more than three times, and fresh oil must never be mixed with used oil.
- If the oil appears dark or emits a blue-grey smoke during heating, it should be disposed of immediately to prevent health risks.
Additionally, Dani stressed that used cooking oil must be handed over only to government-authorized agencies as part of the Repurpose Used Cooking Oil (Ruco) initiative. This ensures proper disposal and prevents the oil from being reused in an unsafe manner.
Impact on Food Safety and Public Health
This regulation is expected to significantly improve food safety standards in Ahmedabad by reducing the consumption of harmful TPCs. By enforcing strict monitoring and disposal protocols, the AMC aims to protect consumers from the adverse effects of repeatedly heated oil, which can include digestive issues and long-term health problems. The move aligns with national efforts to promote healthier eating practices and comply with FSSAI guidelines.
The implementation of these rules marks a proactive approach by the municipal corporation to address a common yet dangerous practice in the food industry. As the deadline approaches, food outlets are urged to adhere to these guidelines to avoid penalties and contribute to a healthier community.
