Tag: Mustard oil controversy

Decades-old animal studies linking high concentrations of erucic acid to adverse heart effects ignited a persistent global controversy around mustard oil's safety. As a result, many countries, including the U.S. and those in the European Union, restrict its sale for cooking, though it remains a kitchen staple in South Asia. This disparity in regulations and cultural acceptance has led many to question: what is the cancerous compound in mustard oil?

In 2016, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) issued an import alert prohibiting the sale of expressed mustard oil for use in cooking due to potential health risks. While it remains a staple in South Asian cuisine, understanding what is the problem with mustard oil, particularly its high erucic acid content, is crucial for consumer safety and informed culinary choices.