Unsafe Cooking Oil Found at Over 40 Bengaluru Food Outlets

Food safety authorities have raised concerns over the quality of cooking oil being used at restaurants and food outlets in Bengaluru after a recent inspection uncovered unsafe practices at several establishments.

According to officials, laboratory testing of used cooking oil samples collected from hotels, restaurants, pubs, bars, clubs, and roadside food vendors found that more than 40 outlets were using oil that failed to meet safety standards. The investigation revealed the presence of harmful levels of trans fats, prompting immediate action by the department.

Following the findings, notices have been issued to the owners of the affected establishments. Authorities have also imposed fines totaling Rs 28.91 lakh for violations related to food safety regulations and the use of degraded cooking oil.

Health experts warn that repeatedly reusing cooking oil can significantly increase the formation of trans fats. Regular consumption of food prepared in such oil has been linked to a higher risk of heart disease, fatty liver, and certain types of cancer. The repeated heating of oil also reduces its nutritional quality and may lead to the formation of harmful compounds.

In response to the inspection results, the Food Safety Department is preparing to introduce stricter guidelines governing the reuse and quality monitoring of cooking oil across commercial food businesses. The new measures are expected to apply to hotels, restaurants, pubs, clubs, bars, and other food service establishments.

Officials have also cautioned that businesses failing to comply with the upcoming regulations could face tougher enforcement, including higher financial penalties and stricter legal action.

The department has urged food business operators to regularly monitor the condition of cooking oil and avoid excessive reuse during food preparation. Maintaining proper oil quality, officials say, is essential for protecting consumer health and ensuring food safety standards are followed.

Consumers have also been advised to remain cautious while purchasing fried food, especially from roadside vendors and busy eateries. Paying attention to hygiene standards and the overall condition of food preparation can help reduce potential health risks.

The latest inspection highlights the growing focus on food safety enforcement in urban areas, with authorities emphasizing that improving cooking practices is essential to reducing long term health concerns linked to unhealthy dietary habits.