AZE.US
A hazardous substance has been detected in a batch of palm oil imported into Azerbaijan, according to information released following routine food safety monitoring.
Authorities have not publicly disclosed the specific compound or its concentration. However, the finding has reignited public concern over the widespread use of palm oil in processed foods.
Palm oil is widely used in confectionery, baked goods, chocolate, and ready-made products due to its low cost, long shelf stability, and functional properties in food production. These characteristics make it a common ingredient in packaged goods.
The Azerbaijan Food Safety Agency (AQTA) stated that imported food products are subject to monitoring at all stages of the supply chain. If violations are identified, authorities take action in accordance with the law.
Officials also clarified that palm oil is not classified as a food additive and therefore is not subject to the E-code labeling system applied to additives. Instead, manufacturers are required to clearly indicate the type of fat used in the product’s ingredient list.
Health specialists note that potential risks are often associated not with crude palm oil itself, but with certain compounds that may form during refining or high-temperature processing. Prolonged consumption of products containing elevated levels of such substances may pose health concerns.
Further details regarding the detected substance and any enforcement measures have not yet been made public.