Key Update

The Government of India has tightened oversight of the edible oil sector by issuing show-cause notices to several large edible oil companies for violating the amended Vegetable Oil Products Production and Availability (Regulation) Order, 2025 (VOPPA Order, 2025). Authorities took action after inspections revealed repeated failures to submit mandatory monthly returns.

VOPPA Mandates Registration and Monthly Data Reporting

Under the amended VOPPA Order, all manufacturers, processors, blenders, and repackers of edible oils must register on the National Single Window System (NSWS) and the VOPPA portal. The order also requires companies to submit monthly returns covering production, stock positions, imports, sales, dispatches, and consumption of edible oil products, including crude and refined oils, blended oils, vanaspati, and margarine. These requirements help regulators track the edible oil supply chain and ensure the availability of safe and regulated food for consumers.

Inspections Reveal Lapses in Mandatory Filings

As part of a nationwide compliance drive, the Department of Food and Public Distribution (DFPD) conducted inspection drives, including in Indore, to verify registrations and assess compliance with reporting norms. The inspections found that some companies failed to file the required monthly returns despite repeated reminders from authorities.

Authorities Issue Show-Cause Notices Under the Essential Commodities Act

Based on the inspection findings, the government issued show-cause notices to the non-compliant companies, treating the lapses as violations under the Essential Commodities Act, 1955. The concerned companies have been given seven days to explain why further action should not be taken. Officials have warned that continued non-compliance may lead to stricter measures, including additional inspections and possible confiscation as permitted under law.

Government Builds Capacity While Strengthening Enforcement

Alongside enforcement, the government is focusing on capacity building to improve compliance. In November 2025, authorities organised a national workshop in Indore to guide industry stakeholders on portal registration, accurate data reporting, and timely submission of returns. The government plans to conduct similar workshops in other states.

Ongoing Inspections Aim to Protect Food Safety

Officials have made it clear that enforcement will continue. Authorities plan additional inspection drives across regions such as Haryana and Rajasthan in January 2026 to ensure uniform compliance with the amended VOPPA Order. Units that remain unregistered or fail to submit returns may face further regulatory action.

Transparency Measures Support Safe Food and Consumer Trust

The government has reiterated that strict implementation of the VOPPA Order is critical to improving transparency, accountability, and data-driven decision-making in the edible oil sector. By strengthening monitoring and compliance, authorities aim to protect food safety and ensure that consumers receive safe, regulated edible oil products.

Source: Foodtech News