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FSSAI issues draft norms to introduce quality benchmarks for Minor Seed Oils
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Friday, 05 June, 2026, 08 : 00 AM [IST]
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Ashwani Maindola, New Delhi
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The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued draft regulations to introduce strict quality benchmarks for a new category- Minor Seed Oils under the regulations for solvent extracted crude vegetable oils (not for direct human consumption) of the Food Safety and Standards (Food Products Standards and Food Additives) Regulations.
The amendment officially regulates four niche, rising agricultural byproducts: chilli seed, muskmelon seed, okra seed, and tomato seed oils.
Under the new directive, these oils must be extracted from clean, mature seeds using methods that preserve their inherent qualities. The FSSAI mandates that the final products be clear, free from rancidity, sediments, and separated water. To prevent fraud, the regulator has strictly banned added colours, flavours, and mineral oils. Additionally, all batches must test negative for toxic Argemone oil.
The framework establishes rigorous chemical blueprints differentiating Cold Pressed/Virgin and Refined variants wherein Acid Value is set Maximum 4.0 mg KOH/g for cold-pressed; 0.6 mg KOH/g for refined. Volatile Matter & Soap Content capped at 0.2% and 0.005% respectively for both.
For Heavy Metals 5.0 mg/kg (cold-pressed) and 2.5 mg/kg (refined) for Iron and copper limits are set at 0.4 mg/kg and 0.1 mg/kg.
The FSSAI has also drawn a hard line on chemical processing. Oils obtained via solvent (hexane) extraction cannot be sold directly to consumers, as they must be refined first, leaving a maximum hexane residue of 5.0 mg/kg. Conversely, traditionally pressed oils must be entirely chemical-free.
Furthermore, while refined versions may use approved food additives to extend shelf life, additives are completely banned in cold-pressed and virgin variants.
The draft further lays down that all manufacturers must comply with India’s strict hygiene, contaminant, and 2020 labelling regulations.
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