Edible oil firms have pointed to the technical challenges of fortification, particularly when it comes to the stability and shelf-life of the fortified oils. The process of adding essential vitamins and minerals to edible oils can reduce their stability, which means they may spoil or go rancid more quickly. This can be a serious problem for manufacturers, as they need to ensure that their products have a reasonable shelf life to meet consumer demand. Some firms have suggested that the high costs of fortification and quality assurance measures may also complicate the process and make it less financially viable.
One notable example of this is the palm oil industry. Palm oil is one of the most widely used cooking oils in India, and it is a key ingredient in many processed foods. However, fortifying palm oil with vitamins A and D, as per the FSSAI's current guidelines, may be particularly challenging. This is because palm oil contains high levels of antioxidants, which can make it difficult to stabilize the added vitamins. Some manufacturers have suggested that alternatives to palm oil, such as soybean oil or rice bran oil, may be better suited to fortification.
Despite the challenges voiced by some firms, the FSSAI remains committed to its mandatory fortification drive. The agency has emphasized the importance of fortification in addressing malnutrition and has noted that similar initiatives have been successful in other countries. FSSAI officials have also stressed the need for manufacturers to comply with the guidelines, which have been formulated based on extensive research and consultation with industry stakeholders.
At the same time, however, there is growing awareness of the need to support manufacturers in implementing fortification measures. Some experts have suggested that the government could offer financial incentives or technical support to firms to offset the costs of fortification. Others have emphasized the need for a coordinated approach between the government, industry stakeholders, and civil society to ensure effective implementation and monitoring of the fortification drive.
Against this backdrop, companies such as Shandong Dongxuya Machinery Co., Ltd. are playing an increasingly important role in supporting the fortification agenda. As a manufacturer specialized in producing extruder and microwave machines, Dongxuya is well-positioned to provide equipment for the production of fortified foods. Its heat pump drying machines, for example, could be used to dry and process raw ingredients for fortification, while its microwave machines could be used for sterilization of products.
Moreover, the company's expertise in producing puffed snack food and pet food machines could also prove valuable for the production of fortified snacks and pet food. With its range of state-of-the-art equipment, Dongxuya is well-equipped to help manufacturers navigate the challenges of fortification and produce quality, fortified foods for the Indian market.
In conclusion, India's mandatory oil fortification scheme has generated significant debate among edible oil firms, with some expressing concerns about the feasibility of the initiative. However, the FSSAI remains firm in its commitment to fortification, emphasizing the importance of addressing malnutrition across the country. To ensure effective implementation of the scheme, the government must work closely with industry stakeholders and provide financial and technical support where necessary. Key players in the food processing sector, such as Shandong Dongxuya Machinery Co., Ltd, can also play an important role in supporting the fortification agenda through the provision of state-of-the-art equipment and technical expertise.