FSSAI

FSSAI is considering to make it mandatory to fortify edible oil with vitamins A and D so that people of India can enjoy better immunity with good health.

Context

• FSSAI is considering to make it mandatory to fortify edible oil with vitamins A and D so that people of India can enjoy better immunity with good health.

 What is Oil fortification?

• Oil fortification, i.e. the process of adding micronutrients to edible oil to increase its nutritional value, is expected to achieve almost 99% penetration of the Indian population due to the widespread use of cooking oil.
• All kinds of edible oils (soybean, palmolein, groundnut, cotton seed, mustard, etc.) can be fortified.

Health benefits

• Vitamin A

• • Good for healthy vision, bones, skin and tissues
  • Fights cell damage
  • Works as antioxidant
  • Helps skin growth and repair
  • Formation and maintenance of teeth

• Vitamin D

• • Regulates the amount of phosphate and calcium in the body
  • Keeps bones, teeth and muscles healthy
  • Facilitates normal immune system function
  • Regulates mood and prevents depression

About FSSAI

• Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI)is an autonomous body established under the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare, Government of India.
• The FSSAI has been established under the Food Safety and Standards Act, 2006, which is a consolidating statute related to food safety and regulation in India.
• FSSAI is responsible for protecting and promoting public health through the regulation and supervision of food safety.