Why did WHO advise against palm oil consumption?

Question

Accepted Answer

WHO Advised Against Palm Oil Consumption Due to its Classification as a Saturated Fat

The World Health Organisation (WHO) Eastern Mediterranean Regional Office advised adults to avoid palm oil in their diet during the Covid-19 outbreak by categorising it as a saturated fat. This advisory recommended consuming unsaturated fats found in sources such as fish, avocado, nuts, olive oil, soy, canola, sunflower, and corn oils, in contrast to saturated fats present in fatty meats, butter, palm and coconut oils, cream, cheese, ghee, and lard.
Classification of Palm Oil as a Saturated Fat

The WHO advisory explicitly listed palm oil alongside other sources of saturated fats. This classification implicitly positions palm oil within the group of fats that, according to general nutritional understanding, are recommended to be consumed in moderation. The advisory contrasted these with unsaturated fats, which are generally considered healthier alternatives.
Recommended Alternatives to Palm Oil

In place of palm oil and other saturated fats, the WHO suggested a range of alternatives rich in unsaturated fats. These included readily available food items such as fish, avocados, various nuts, and a selection of vegetable oils like olive oil, soy oil, canola oil, sunflower oil, and corn oil. This recommendation aimed to guide consumers towards dietary choices associated with beneficial fatty acid profiles.
Malaysian Perspective on the Advisory

Malaysia, a major global producer of palm oil, criticised the WHO's advice, characterising it as "antiquated." The Malaysian Palm Oil Council (MPOC) argued that palm oil possesses a natural balance of saturated and unsaturated fats beneficial for micronutrient absorption. The MPOC also highlighted palm oil's sustainability, its availability in large quantities, and its affordability, suggesting these factors are crucial for providing essential calories, particularly in regions where undernutrition is a concern.

Reading history

Hide →

This history is cleared when the page is closed.

Why did WHO advise against palm oil consumption?

Loading

Was this article helpful?

Helpful

Not helpful

Report an issue

1

0

0

Share with friends