InfoSAWIT, KUALA LUMPUR – The Malaysian Palm Oil Council (MPOC) has officially partnered with the Oil Technologists’ Association of India (OTAI) to enhance awareness of the nutritional benefits and health attributes of Malaysian palm oil in the Indian market. This initiative aims to promote sustainable trade growth between the two countries.
India is one of the key markets for Malaysian palm oil. Through this collaboration, MPOC and OTAI will conduct educational campaigns targeting consumers, industry players, and the scientific community. The primary focus of this collaboration includes consumer education, industry engagement, and scientific research to strengthen the position of palm oil as a key ingredient in both food and non-food sectors in India.
MPOC CEO, Belvinder Sron, emphasized the importance of this initiative in building a better understanding of palm oil in India. “India remains one of the most important markets for Malaysian palm oil. Through this science-based initiative, we aim to strengthen the acceptance of palm oil by providing accurate and research-based information,” he stated, as quoted by InfoSAWIT from MPOC's official website on Wednesday (March 19, 2025).
He also added that the partnership with OTAI is a crucial strategy in addressing various misconceptions surrounding palm oil. “Collaboration with OTAI allows us to leverage their expertise and network to reach key stakeholders. Together, we can build consumer trust and ensure that the benefits of Malaysian palm oil are more widely recognized.”
Malaysian palm oil is known to be free of trans fats and rich in antioxidant Vitamin E in the form of tocopherols and tocotrienols. Natural compounds such as beta-carotene and tocotrienols in palm oil contribute to heart health, making it a good choice in a balanced diet. Additionally, palm oil has a unique balance of saturated and unsaturated fatty acids that are important for body health.
Founded in 1943, OTAI is a leading association representing technologists, scientists, academics, and industry professionals in the fields of vegetable oils, oleochemicals, surfactants, and related products. With regional offices in Delhi, Kolkata, Mumbai, Hyderabad, and Kanpur, OTAI plays a vital role in promoting technological advancements and knowledge sharing through seminars, workshops, and research.
As part of this agreement, MPOC and OTAI will hold industry seminars, conferences, and academic lectures to educate Indian consumers, food manufacturers, and industry players about the health benefits and various applications of Malaysian palm oil. This initiative is expected to dispel misconceptions that have circulated in society.
Furthermore, MPOC and OTAI will also encourage research collaboration with leading educational institutions in India to validate the nutritional benefits and functions of palm oil. The results of this research will be published in scientific journals, industry forums, and mass media, ensuring that research-based information reaches policymakers and the broader public. (T2)
