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The Maharashtra government’s decision to allow the sale of edible oil in loose form could be a big health hazard, said The Solvent Extractors' Association of India. A notification had said due to a lack of packaging infrastructure, oil could be sold in loose form for a year in 100, 200 and 300g.
The state government also said that tin plates which are required for packaging are not available in sufficient quantity. The state government has taken this decision to make it easier for lower socio-economic backgrounds to buy edible oil as it is difficult for them to buy packaged oil. Quantities of only 500 gms and above are available in the market.
The Solvent Extractors Association, a body of processors is against this and has written to the state government saying that this will cause malpractices by way of adulteration and also consumer could be cheated on the quantity and a detrimental to the health of the consumers.
They have also asked the government to review this decision as this will have an impact on the health of the consumer.
They have also said that vegetable industry in Maharashtra has necessary infrastructure for packing of edible oil in 100, 200 and 300 gms package and is in position to supply the edible oil in small packs in rural area too.
