The partnership will help oil millers in India ensure food safety and fortification compliance, delivering better health and nutrition to consumers
9thApril 2025: The Solvent Extractors’ Association of India (SEA), a premier association representing various stakeholders in the Indian edible oil industry, and TechnoServe, an international non-governmental organization dedicated to economic development, have recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding to enhance edible oil fortification in India. This collaboration aims to ensure quality-assured fortified edible oil reaches Indian consumers in line with national priorities set by the Government of India and the voluntary edible oil fortification standards of Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI).
The partnership will focus on enhancing the expertise of edible oil producers through bilateral training, workshops, and sector-wide seminars. It will promote Good Manufacturing Practices, Good Hygiene Practices, and appropriate fortification methods while strengthening internal quality assurance and external quality control measures for fortified edible oil. The collaboration will also encourage industry-wide voluntary fortification and food safety compliance through engagement with policymakers and industry stakeholders.
Rizwan Yusufali, Global Program Director, Millers for Nutrition said “We’re thrilled to partner with The Solvent Extractors’ Association of India to provide edible oil producers, best-in-class support in edible oil fortification. And we look forward to recognizing and celebrating those edible oil producers for contributing to a healthier India.”
Mr. Sanjeev Asthana, President, The Solvent Extractors’ Association of India said, “Our association with TechnoServe reinforces SEA’s commitment to ensuring fortified and high-quality edible oil production in India. Through industry-wide collaboration, we can significantly contribute to public health and food safety. SEA will be ensuring active participation of nominated processors in training and technical programs, providing administrative support, communication, and follow-up coordination with industry players, and encouraging member companies to commit to voluntary fortification and compliance with food safety regulations.”
Monojit Indra, Senior Practice Lead TechnoServe and Program Lead Millers for Nutrition (Asia) said, “TechnoServe will support SEA by providing technical training and capacity-building initiatives for their members. Through this collaboration we will conduct studies and assessments to support best practices in fortification, advise on appropriate procurement and supply of high-quality micronutrient premix and equipment, engage with industry stakeholders for cost optimization and innovation, and promote proper handling and storage of micronutrient premixes to ensure compliance with fortification standards.”
Dr. B V Mehta, Executive Director, The Solvent Extractors’ Association of India added “This MoU marks a significant milestone for the edible oil industry in India. By fostering a collaborative environment, we are ensuring that fortification becomes an industry standard, ultimately benefiting millions of consumers by improving nutritional security.”
India is one of the largest consumers of edible oil globally, and ensuring its fortification is a crucial step towards tackling micronutrient deficiencies. This MoU reflects the shared vision of TechnoServe and SEA to promote industry-wide accountability, enhance fortification practices, and improve overall food safety in the country.
About SEA
The Solvent Extractors’ Association of India (SEA) founded in 1963, is a premier and largest Association of vegetable oil in India having 700 members spread across the country. SEA of India is an NGO and Trade Promotion Organisation, recognised by Govt. of India. Oilseed crushers, Importers of edible oils, refiners and service providers are the members of the Association. SEA of India works with the industry players, the government agencies, the decision makers and the multiple global organisations/governments to promote the growth and development of the vegetable oil trade and the industry, within borders as well as across borders. ITC (Geneva) of United Nation in its study has recognised SEA of India as the Best and Successful Model Association.
About TechnoServe
Founded in 1968, TechnoServe is a leader in harnessing the power of the private sector to help people lift themselves out of poverty for good. A non-profit organization working in around 35 countries, we work with people to build a better future through regenerative farms, businesses, and markets that increase incomes. Our vision is a sustainable world where all people in low-income communities have the opportunity to prosper.
About Millers for Nutrition
Millers for Nutrition is supported by Strategic Fortification Partners: BASF, BioAnalyt, Bühler, dsm-firmenich, Mühlenchemie, SternVitamin; Regional Strategic Fortification Partners: Hexagon Nutrition, Piramal, Sanku; and a growing group of local technical partners that share a common vision of improving food processing practices and fortification excellence to benefit society and enhance business sustainability. Millers for Nutrition is powered by TechnoServe with funding support from the Gates Foundation. Millers, food fortification stakeholders, and others interested in joining the coalition can learn more at https://millersfornutrition.com/
