Tag Archives: Palm Oil

Susanne Kuehne, Decernis
Food Fraud Quick Bites

Oil Crisis, The 2019 Version

By Susanne Kuehne
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Susanne Kuehne, Decernis
Food fraud
Find records of fraud such as those discussed in this column and more in the Food Fraud Database.
Image credit: Susanne Kuehne.

In many parts of India, mustard oil is widely consumed as an edible oil and for ceremonial use, and is a target for adulterations for economic gain. In a test of 20 samples, 80% of the samples were adulterated. Adulterants, some of them hazardous to human health, often consist of cheaper oils such as palm or sesame seed oil, as well as added dyes or flavor components. Tests were made using TLC Chromatography, nitric acid test, azo dye test and other test methods.

Resource

Pandey, P., Mishra, M. and Kesharwani, L. (October 6, 2019). “Examination of Various Adulterants in non-branded Mustard Oil for Forensic Considerations”. Academic Journal of Forensic Science.

 

Susanne Kuehne, Decernis
Food Fraud Quick Bites

Palm Oil to Dye For

By Susanne Kuehne
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Susanne Kuehne, Decernis
Decernis, Food Fraud, Palm Oil
Find records of fraud such as those discussed in this column and more in the Food Fraud Database. Image credit: Susanne Kuehne

Sudan IV, a diazo dye widely used to stain fuel and industrial grease, is a carcinogen and therefore unsuitable for human consumption. In a recent case in Ghana, it was added to palm oil to achieve the typical reddish-brown color. Adulteration of palm oil is a recurring issue that has been taking place across Asian and African brands, including products sold in Europe, and authorities keep warning of the consumption of the tarnished palm oil.

Resource

  1. Times of Malta (June 28, 2019). “Palm oil contains dangerous dye, authorities warn”.

Additional Resources

  1. FDA food alert, April 2018, Palm oil recall due to the presence of Sudan IV
  2. Swiss government warns of cancerous palm oil, January 2018. Palm Oil adulteration with Sudan IV. Origin of the oil is unknown but most likely an African producer
  3. CFA Alert, August 2017, Food recall: Palm oil adulterated with Sudan IV