The Necessity of Opaque Packaging to Protect Micronutrients in Edible Oil

To ensure the micronutrient intake of the people of Bangladesh, the fortification of edible oil with vitamin A was made mandatory in 2013. This was undoubtedly a milestone in addressing vitamin A deficiency and protecting public health. In our country, edible oil is typically marketed in transparent plastic bottles, as consumers prefer to see the color of the oil before purchasing. However, many are unaware of the health implications hidden behind this transparent plastic packaging.

Whether in shops or kitchens, these transparent plastic bottles of edible oil are almost always exposed to light. Vitamin A, when mixed in edible oil, gradually degrades upon exposure to direct sunlight, indirect light (semi-dark conditions), and even ordinary bulb light. Multiple studies have shown that vitamin A in transparent bottles diminishes within a few months. The degradation process accelerates further in the presence of oxygen and higher peroxide levels in the oil (oxidative status), leading to a decline in its overall quality. Thus, government’s efforts to combat nutritional deficiencies are being hampered due to a lack of awareness. All forms of light, including ultraviolet (UV) rays, are harmful to the vitamin content in edible oil. Vitamin A exists in the form of retinol and retinyl palmitate. In edible oil, light exposure triggers an isomerization process where the molecular structure of vitamin A changes from ‘trans’ to ‘cis’ form, leading to significant damage, such as (a) reduced the effectiveness of vitamin A; (b) decreased bioavailability; and (c) changes in aroma, off-flavors, and overall sensory characteristics.

To preserve micronutrients in edible oil, light-resistant opaque packaging is a highly effective solution. There are also cost-effective alternatives available. Options include pouch packs, laminated PET bottles, HDPE jars, and UV-treated bottles, all of which help maintain oil quality. The biggest advantage of opaque bottles is that they block light from entering. While light easily penetrates transparent bottles, opaque packaging shields the oil from external light rays, helping preserve its nutritional value. This type of packaging also protects the oil from harmful UV rays. As a result, the vitamins and essential nutrients in the oil remain stable for a longer period and shelf life is also extended. Research shows that vitamin A lasts almost twice as long in light-resistant opaque bottles—an essential factor for public health. Moreover, opaque packaging maintains the taste, smell, and color of the oil, offering added value for consumers. According to experts, using light-resistant opaque packaging for edible oil can protect it from harmful light exposure and play a vital role in addressing nutritional deficiencies.

Some might ask why transparent packaging is used for edible oils in many developed countries. While this is true, vitamin A deficiency is not prevalent in many of those countries, or their diets are supplemented with vitamin A-rich foods, making opaque packaging unnecessary. However, many countries have made opaque packaging mandatory for edible oils. Countries like the United States, Canada, Saudi Arabia, India, and Finland have already started using opaque bottle, which has proven effective in preserving vitamin content. Additionally, international organizations emphasize the importance of proper storage and recommend the use of opaque packaging for food items. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations, light-resistant packaging should be used for food preservation, a practice that Bangladesh must implement urgently.

To ensure the use of high-quality packaging for edible oil, the government must now prioritize this issue. At the same time, producers and refinery companies can take initiatives to introduce opaque packaging to enhance branding. In 2022, the government issued a directive mandating 100% packaging of edible oil, but that alone is not sufficient. The existing laws and regulations should be reviewed to provide proper guidance to producers and refiners. One concern may be the potential increase in average costs due to switching to opaque packaging. No concrete research has been done on this yet. However, the economic loss due to diseases caused by the current transparent packaging should also be considered, that is, a cost-benefit analysis is crucial. Based on such assessments, it will become evident that “the cost of action is far less than the cost of inaction.” If necessary, the government can provide financial incentives and policy support to companies in the industry so they can invest in better technologies and emphasize light-resistant features in packaging. Public awareness is also critical. If consumers become informed and avoid purchasing oil in transparent bottles, producers and marketers will be motivated to make necessary changes. Notably, some healthcare organizations and consumer rights groups in the country have already started campaigning on this issue and are conducting awareness programs nationwide.

In Bangladesh, edible oil fortification with vitamin A has been made mandatory to address the nutritional deficiencies of the masses. The importance of vitamin A for the human body is well known to any health-conscious person. However, a well-intentioned public health intervention should not turn counterproductive simply due to a lack of proper understanding. Ensuring the use of opaque packaging in edible oil will ultimately benefit the public and contribute to building a well-nourished, healthy nation that can drive the country’s development forward.

Mustak Hassan Md. Iftekhar, Health Economist, Founder Chairman of Bangladesh Safe Food Authority, and former Additional Secretary.