The Karnataka Health Department has issued strict guidelines to regulate the use of cooking oil across food-related industries following a surge in heart attack cases linked to reused oil. The new advisory bans the reuse of previously used cooking oil in hotels, bakeries, and food manufacturing units. According to the Health Department, certain types of reused oil contribute to an increase in bad cholesterol, which negatively impacts heart health. In response, food safety officials—after consultations with medical experts—have ordered mandatory quality analysis testing of cooking oil every six months for all oil manufacturers and food businesses.
Currently, the state has reported 32,68,999 litres of used oil in circulation. Authorities have directed proper disposal through authorized bio-diesel conversion units. The advisory also mandates the use of oils that are low in trans fats and rich in vitamins A and D. Businesses must ensure packaging and labeling hygiene and clearly mention nutritional contents. Any violation of these norms, especially the reuse of oil, will attract strict penalties.
Hotels and bakeries have been specifically instructed to completely avoid the reuse of cooking oil under any circumstance. The department hopes these measures will improve public health outcomes and reduce the rising number of lifestyle-related diseases. This move is part of Karnataka’s broader initiative to enforce food safety standards across the state and promote healthier cooking practices in both commercial and domestic kitchens. Regular inspections will be conducted to ensure compliance.
