By Akanksha
May 12, 2026
Prime Minister Narendra Modi has urged families to reduce edible oil consumption as part of his 7-point public appeal, saying it can improve both personal health and the country’s economic well-being.
Here are some practical ways families can cut down oil use in daily cooking without making major changes to their meals.India is one of the world’s largest importers of edible oil.
One of the easiest ways to reduce oil use is to stop pouring it directly from the bottle into the pan. Using a spoon or measuring cup helps control the quantity used in cooking.
Steaming, grilling, roasting and baking often require much less oil compared to deep frying. Foods such as cutlets, potatoes and snacks can also be prepared in an air fryer or oven.
Packaged snacks and fried foods already contain oil. Re-frying them at home adds extra fat unnecessarily.
Adding more vegetables, fruits and salads to meals can naturally reduce dependence on oily dishes. Simple additions like cucumber, carrots, sprouts or boiled vegetables can make meals filling.
Good-quality cookware often needs less oil for cooking. Non-stick pans and heavy-bottom utensils help prevent food from sticking, reducing the need for extra oil.
Samosas, chips, pakoras and fried namkeen are common evening snacks in many homes. Replacing them with roasted chana, fruits, makhana or nuts can help cut daily oil consumption.
Meal planning can reduce dependence on fast food and heavily fried takeaway meals. Preparing simple home-cooked dishes in advance also helps families avoid last-minute unhealthy eating choices.
Cooking smaller quantities of curry, gravy or fried items often leads to lower oil usage. Focus on balanced meals rather than rich and oily preparations at every meal.
Disclaimer: This article is for general awareness purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical or dietary advice. Readers should consult a qualified health expert.