USA – Citing growing consumer concern over the prevalence of refined seed oils in the global food supply chain, the Seed Oil Free Alliance has announced the introduction of the “Seed Oil Free Certified” Standards and Certification Program.
This new initiative aims to provide transparency and assurance to consumers who wish to reduce or eliminate seed oils from their diets.
“Americans who want to reduce or eliminate seed oils from their diet deserve full transparency around these ingredients,” stated Jonathan Rubin, CEO of the Seed Oil Free Alliance.
“The aim of the new ‘Seed Oil Free Certified’ seal is to help consumers identify foods made with healthy ingredients at the grocery store and when dining out. This sends a powerful message to the entire industry that consumers demand transparency and honesty when it comes to the quality and purity of their ingredients.”
The certification program responds to studies conducted by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and UC Davis, which found that more than 25% of extra virgin olive oil and nearly 70% of avocado oil in the U.S. supply chain may be adulterated with low-cost refined seed oils like soybean, corn, or canola oil.
The Seed Oil Free Alliance highlighted that this food fraud is economically motivated and often escapes detection, leading to mislabeled products being sold at a premium price.
Implications of oil adulteration
The Alliance warns that oil adulteration fraud could become more prevalent as demand for premium, healthy oils increases, coupled with production shortfalls due to climate-related factors.
“When people see the ‘Seed Oil Free Certified’ seal in the grocery aisle or at their favorite restaurant, they’ll know these products have undergone rigorous laboratory testing and audits to protect them from food fraud,” said Corey Nelson, Chief Innovation Officer of the Seed Oil Free Alliance.
“Through education and technology, the Seed Oil Free Alliance is creating an incentive for transparency that will help food brands align with the preferences of consumers.”
All foods bearing the “Seed Oil Free Certified” seal must pass laboratory testing to confirm they are free from all seed oils, including soybean, corn, and canola oil.
Permitted oils and refined fats include olive oil, avocado oil, coconut oil, butter, and other refined animal fats. Consumer-packaged goods companies and restaurants that achieve certification can license the “Seed Oil Free Certified” seal for display on product packages, menus, and marketing materials.
The Seed Oil Free Alliance is a third-party certifying organization that offers the “Seed Oil Free Certified” seal for qualifying consumer packaged goods, ready-to-eat foods, food service operations, and bottled cooking oil products. This seal guarantees that products have undergone independent laboratory testing to ensure the purity of added oils and refined fat ingredients.
Sign up to receive our email newsletters with the latest news updates and insights from Africa and the World HERE.
