Preamble:
In daily life, edible oil is an indispensable part of cooking, and its safety is directly related to the health of every family.
The results of a test conducted by the Hong Kong Consumer Council are a wake-up call – only three out of 50 cooking oils are considered safe. This result has undoubtedly triggered widespread public concern and deep reflection on food safety.
First, the current situation of edible oil safety
The Hong Kong Consumer Council's test results on 50 edible oils showed that 47 oils contained harmful contaminants, of which 20 oils contained more than three harmful substances. This staggering number raises great concerns about the safety of cooking oil in the daily diet. Plasticizers are particularly problematic, with 68% of samples containing plasticizers in 2017 and 70% in 2022.
2. How to choose safe edible oil
In the face of many edible oil brands on the market, how can consumers choose safe and healthy edible oil? Here are some suggestions:
Choose high-quality oils, such as soybeans, olive oil, peanut oil, etc., which come from pollution-free, non-GMO areas.
Look carefully at the label of the oil, focusing on information such as the date of manufacture, shelf life, quality grade, and processing technology.
Look for certification marks such as organic food and green food, which are proof of quality and safety.
Choose well-known, reputable, and long-established brands that often have stricter quality control and safety management.
3. Change your oil habits
In addition to choosing safe cooking oil, it is equally important to change your oil habits:
Diversify the use of edible oils and avoid using a single type of oil for a long time to reduce potential risks.
Use oil correctly according to its nature and use, such as olive oil is suitable for cold dressing, but not for high-temperature cooking.
Pay attention to the production process of oil, and choose brands with strict quality control and advanced technology.
Fourth, the importance of edible oil safety
Edible oil safety is related to personal health, but also related to the food safety and health of the whole society. The results of the Hong Kong Consumer Council's test are like a mirror that shows the problems in the oil market. As consumers, we have a responsibility to promote the healthy development of the oil industry through our own choices and actions.
Epilogue:
The safety of edible oil cannot be ignored. As consumers, we should be vigilant and learn how to choose safe and healthy cooking oils. At the same time, we should also pay attention to and support those organizations and companies that are committed to improving the safety standards of edible oils. Let's work together to check the health of ourselves and our families, and contribute to creating a safer and healthier food environment.