A recent seminar held at Harcourt Butler Technical University (HBTU) in Kanpur, India, brought together experts in nutrition science, food regulation, cardiology, and oil technology to discuss the role of palm oil in human health, nutrition, and sustainability. The seminar, titled “Palm Oil’s Role in Human Health, Nutrition, and Sustainability: The Balanced Truth,” aimed to provide a science-led conversation on the topic and dispel long-standing myths surrounding palm oil.
Palm oil is a widely consumed edible oil in India, known for its affordability, versatility, and reliability. It plays a vital role in the country’s food system, supporting food security for households, food service operators, and the packaged food industry. The seminar highlighted the scientific benefits of palm oil, including its balanced mix of saturated and unsaturated fatty acids, high oxidative stability, and natural source of Vitamin E tocotrienols.
Experts emphasized that palm oil is suitable for everyday cooking when consumed as part of a balanced diet and that overall dietary patterns, lifestyle choices, and moderation play a far greater role in health outcomes than the exclusion of any single cooking oil. The discussions also aligned with the objectives of the National Mission on Edible Oils – Oil Palm (NMEO-OP), launched by the Government of India in 2021 to promote sustainable agricultural practices and strengthen domestic edible oil production.
The seminar highlighted the efficiency of oil palm as a crop, noting that it delivers higher yields per hectare compared to other major vegetable oil crops. When supported by responsible cultivation methods, scientific research, and sustainability frameworks, oil palm farming can contribute to rural livelihoods, economic development, and long-term food security.
The event emphasized the importance of science-based communication in shaping perspectives on palm oil in India and promoting balanced, responsible dietary practices. Prof. Praveen Yadav, Dean of the School of Chemical Technology at HBTU, noted that forums like the seminar help to balance opinions and ground them in science, context, and responsibility. By looking at health, nutrition, and sustainability together, rather than in isolation, individuals can make informed choices as professionals and consumers. The seminar provided a platform for constructive, science-driven dialogue on palm oil and its role in human health, nutrition, and sustainability.