Back Oct 11, 2025

FSSAI’s drive to convert used cooking oil as biofuel gets good response in several districts in T.N.

The Repurpose Used Cooking Oil (RUCO) initiative launched by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) to collect used oil from food manufacturers and convert it into biofuel has gained traction in recent years, especially in the run-up to festivals.

Tiruvanaikovil-based kB Energy Corporation, an FSSAI-licensed start-up that buys used oil from over 2,000 restaurants, catering units, sweet manufacturers, canteens in educational institutions and hospitals in the districts of Tiruchi, Dindigul, Pudukottai, Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Nagapattinam and Mayiladuthurai, has a stock of close to 30 tonnes of used oil ahead of Deepavali this year. During normal period, 15 to 20 tonnes of used oil is collected per month.

“Sellers of deep-fried snacks use up to 50 litres of oil per day. Bigger companies use up to 100 litres. As per FSSAI norms, at least 20 to 25% of the oil that is used can be given away for biofuel production,” Kishore Kumar Baskaran, the start-up’s founder-proprietor, told The Hindu on Saturday.

There are three biofuel manufacturing plants in Tamil Nadu and approximately 64 across India, said Mr. Kishore. “After a slow start initially, used oil collection has become competitive, with many jobs being generated in allied fields for young entrepreneurs. There is a growing awareness about the toxicity in used cooking oil that could cause serious health problems,” he said.

Once collected, the used oil is filtered, and stored in large barrels and tanks on the Tiruvanaikovil premises.

“Since we are authorised aggregators, licensed by FSSAI and Biodiesel Association of India, we can supply the used oil only to biofuel manufacturers. Those who are not licensed, tend to resell used cooking oils to be reused by smaller restaurants, up to four to five times. Customers have started realising the dangers of reusing cooking oil and now prefer to sell their used stock to us,” said Mr. Kishore.

Food safety

The district administration has advised consumers to ensure that they purchase their traditional sweets, savouries and baked goods being prepared for Deepavali this year, from vendors who comply with FSSAI standards and have a valid Hygiene Rating Certificate.

According to an official advisory on Saturday, those found to be operating without a certificate would be prosecuted. Members of the public can lodge their food-related complaints on the WhatsApp number 9444042322 or email unavupukar@gmail.com.

Complaints can be registered on the TN Food Safety Consumer App or Food Safety Connect. Consumer grievances can be recorded on https://foscos.fssai.gov.in

Source: The Hindu

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