Hyderabad: July 18, 2023 – Freedom Healthy Cooking Oils, a leading brand in the edible oil industry, organized a groundbreaking and informative seminar as a part of ‘Freedom Oil Knowledge Series’ on the topic ‘Busting Myths About Edible Oil’. The event was aimed to increase awareness about the importance of edible oils in daily cooking and dispelling the myths about the harmful effect of oils on our body, by providing accurate information and insights into the nutritional benefits of various oils. The panel brought together renowned experts like Haritha Bathina, Chief Dietician, Apollo Hospital, Hyderabad, Dr. Col Mantripragada Sitaram, a Senior Consultant in Medicine and Cardiology, Apollo Hospital, Secunderabad, Dr. S Nasreen, HoD Nutrition (UG) Madina Degree & PG College for Women, Chef Kiran Joshi, Chef Consultant & CEO, Dattatray Hospitality Consultancy Services and Mr. P. Chandra Shekhara Reddy, Sr. Vice President, Sales & Marketing at Gemini Edibles & Fats India Limited sharing their knowledge and perspectives on the topic. The Seminar was attended by nutritionists, healthcare professionals, culinary experts, and individuals seeking information about edible oils.
The event started with an introduction of the panel members by the eminent Nutritionist Dr. Matheen Asrar. The discussion was moderated by noted Journalist and Founder of Rice Bucket Challenge Ms. Manju Latha Kalanidhi. The diverse panel of experts represented their views and brought forward their specialized perspectives on the importance of using edible oils and their importance for our daily nutritional needs. Through the engaging panel discussion, the esteemed panelists addressed common myths and misconceptions surrounding edible oils and highlighted the unique advantages of specific oils. They emphasized the benefits of incorporating these oils in moderation as part of a balanced diet.
Speaking on the occasion Haritha Bathina, Chief Dietician at Apollo Hospital, Hyderabad, said “As nutritionists, it is our responsibility to provide accurate information about edible oils. There are several myths surrounding their consumption, such as the belief that all oils lead to weight gain. However, the truth is that oil is an essential part of a balanced diet. Each type of oil has its unique advantages and benefits. For example, rice bran oil is rich in antioxidants and vitamin E, which promote heart health and boost the immune system. Mustard oil contains heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, while groundnut oil is a good source of vitamin E. Sunflower oil, with its high smoke point, is versatile for various cooking methods. Also, Rice Bran Oil (RBO), which includes its rich content of antioxidants like Oryzanol, its balanced fatty profile with a 1:1 ratio of PUFA and MUFA, and its ability to lower bad cholesterol and maintain good cholesterol making it a great choice for day-to-day cooking. We encourage individuals to make healthier choice by incorporating Rice Bran Oil into their daily cooking but limit the quantity of oil being consumed on a daily basis.”
Adding to this Dr. Col Mantripragada Sitaram, a Senior Consultant in Medicine and Cardiology at Apollo Hospital, Secunderabad, said, “As healthcare professionals, it is essential to be well-informed about edible oils. One common myth is that all oils are harmful to heart health. However, this is not accurate. Mustard oil, for instance, contains heart-healthy monounsaturated fats that can reduce the risk of heart disease. By dispelling these myths and providing accurate information, nutritionists and healthcare professionals can guide their patients toward healthier choices and contribute to overall well-being” “Research has shown that Rice Bran Oil is one such cooking medium reported to have several beneficial qualities. The World Health Organization (WHO) and the American Heart Association have recommended Rice Bran Oil as the best choice for improving serum cholesterol levels. According to AHA & WHO, Sunflower oil offers a great source of vitamin E, acting as an antioxidant that can protect against certain types of cancers and fight inflammation. Studies have even linked higher vitamin E intake to a lower risk of cardiovascular disease.”
Adding to this Dr. S Nasreen, HoD Nutrition (UG) Madina Degree & PG College for Women, said “Edible oils provide essential fatty acids, fat-soluble vitamins, and other vital nutrients that our body requires. These nutrients play a crucial role in maintaining healthy cell function, supporting brain health, and aiding nutrient absorption. Additionally, the presence of healthy fats in edible oils helps provide a feeling of satiety, which can prevent overeating and aid in weight management. By excluding edible oils from our diet, we may miss out on these important health benefits, potentially compromising our overall well-being. However, it is essential to select high-quality oils and consume them in appropriate amounts as part of a balanced diet. Consulting with a nutritionist can help determine the optimal quantity and type of edible oil to incorporate into your diet, ensuring you reap the benefits without any negative consequences.”
Adding to this Chef Kiran Joshi, Chef Consultant & CEO of Dattatray Hospitality Consultancy Services, said “As a chef, I believe that edible oils have the power to transform and elevate our culinary experiences. Each oil brings its unique characteristics, flavors, and benefits to the table. By using different oils in our cooking, we can create a diverse range of flavors, textures, and aromas that make our food truly enjoyable. From the subtle nuttiness of groundnut oil to the smooth richness of olive oil, each oil adds its own touch of magic. “Sunflower oil and rice bran oil, in particular, stand out as versatile options with a neutral taste. Their ability to retain the flavors of the food allows us to fully savor the true palate of the cuisine. Therefore, Edible oils also play a crucial role in achieving the desired textures in dishes, be it the crispy crust from shallow frying or the indulgent richness from deep frying. It’s essential to embrace the wonderful array of edible oils available to us and use them mindfully to enhance the overall dining experience.”
Speaking further on this P. Chandra Shekhara Reddy, Sr.Vice President of Sales & Marketing at Gemini Edibles & Fats India Limited, said “Freedom Healthy oils is committed to promoting good health through their range of high-quality cooking oils. With a focus on enhancing the nutritional value of meals, Freedom empowers individuals to make informed choices that align with their specific dietary needs and culinary preferences. As a trusted partner in their customer’s journey towards a healthier lifestyle, Freedom Oils challenges the misconception that all oils are detrimental to health. Instead, we advocate for a balanced approach, recognizing the essential role of oil in a well-rounded diet. By offering a diverse selection of oils, including rice bran oil, mustard oil, groundnut oil, and sunflower oil, Freedom ensures that customers have options that cater to their individual preferences and nutritional requirements. By embracing Freedom Healthy Cooking Oils, individuals can elevate the nutritional profile of their meals while enjoying the culinary benefits that these high-quality oils bring.”
