Hyderabad: 02^nd July, 2026: GEF India, in association with the Indian Association for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition (IAPEN India) Hyderabad Chapter, hosted a Nutrition Meet on the theme “Nutritional Insights and Everyday Value of Rice Bran Oil“, bringing together nutritionists, dietitians, healthcare professionals and industry experts to discuss the importance of evidence-based nutrition and the role of healthy cooking oils in preventive healthcare. The session was led by renowned Consultant Nutritionist Dr. Matheen Asrar, who shared scientific insights on dietary fats, everyday nutrition and practical approaches to making healthier food choices.

The session focused on the growing burden of non-communicable diseases such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes and obesity, highlighting the importance of preventive nutrition in improving long term health outcomes. Experts emphasised that while cooking oil is a staple ingredient in almost every Indian household, consumers often make decisions based on misconceptions rather than scientific evidence. They stressed the need to shift the conversation from reducing fat intake to choosing the right quality of fats and following balanced dietary practices.

Dr. Matheen explained that fats are essential for brain function, hormone production, cell health and vitamin absorption, and should not be eliminated but balanced through quality and moderation. She highlighted that Rice Bran Oil contains monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats along with bioactives such as oryzanol, tocopherols and tocotrienols, which have been studied for their role in supporting cholesterol management. Its high smoke point also makes it suitable for Indian cooking methods such as deep frying and stir frying. Referring to published evidence, she noted that Rice Bran Oil consumption has been associated with up to a 12% reduction in LDL cholesterol over four weeks, while a meta-analysis of 11 randomised controlled trials (RCTs) involving 572 participants reported reductions in LDL cholesterol, total cholesterol and triglycerides. She added that these benefits are comparable to those of other unsaturated vegetable oils. However, she reiterated that the choice of cooking oil, together with a balanced diet and an active lifestyle, remains key to maintaining good health

Speaking during the session, Dr. Matheen Asrar, RD, PhD, PGDHA, CDE and Consultant Nutritionist, said, “Good nutrition is built on informed choices guided by credible scientific evidence rather than misconceptions or changing dietary trends. As consumers have access to an abundance of nutrition information, it is important to distinguish facts from myths and adopt dietary habits that are practical, balanced and sustainable. Rice Bran Oil is one of the cooking oils with a well-documented nutritional profile and can be included as part of a healthy diet. However, lasting health is shaped by overall dietary patterns, regular physical activity and consistent lifestyle practices rather than any single food or ingredient.”

Speaking on the occasion, Ms. Sujata Stephen, General Secretary, IAPEN Telangana Chapter, said, “Nutrition awareness plays a vital role in improving public health and empowering individuals to make informed dietary choices. At IAPEN Telangana Chapter, we are committed to advancing nutrition education by encouraging knowledge sharing among healthcare professionals and promoting practical dietary guidance for the wider community. Our association with GEF India for this Nutrition Meet provided a valuable platform to discuss preventive nutrition, healthy cooking practices and the nutritional value of Rice Bran Oil. We believe that continued collaboration between healthcare professionals, nutrition experts and responsible industry partners can contribute significantly to promoting healthier lifestyles and supporting long term health and wellbeing.”

Adding to this, Mr. Chetan Pimpalkhute, Marketing Head, Freedom Healthy Cooking Oils, said, “At GEF India, we recognise that consumers today are increasingly seeking practical and reliable nutrition information to support healthier lifestyles. Through this Nutrition Meet, we aimed to simplify the science behind Rice Bran Oil and highlight its everyday nutritional value as part of a balanced diet. Freedom Rice Bran Oil reflects this commitment through its nutritional profile, including a high oryzanol content of more than 10,000 ppm, along with naturally occurring antioxidants such as tocopherols and tocotrienols, making it a practical choice for everyday cooking. By bringing together leading nutrition experts and healthcare professionals, we hope to encourage greater nutrition literacy, inspire healthier cooking practices and empower consumers to make informed food choices with greater confidence.”

The interactive session concluded with experts encouraging consumers to adopt a holistic approach to health through balanced nutrition, regular physical activity and informed cooking oil choices, reiterating that no single food or oil can ensure good health and that long-term wellness depends on consistent lifestyle habits supported by scientific evidence. The Nutrition Meet reflected the shared commitment of GEF India and IAPEN India Hyderabad Chapter to advancing nutrition awareness through credible knowledge-sharing initiatives, bringing together nutrition experts, healthcare professionals and industry leaders to reinforce the importance of evidence-based education in promoting healthier communities and empowering consumers to make informed dietary decisions.

Hyderabad: 10th January, 2025: Gemini Edible & Fats India Limited (GEF India) makers of Freedom Healthy Cooking Oils, in association with HMDA  & Telangana Social impact Group/T-SIG (CSR Wing, Telangana Government) and related government bodies along with the representatives of Dhruvansh organisation (NGO) who are implementing this significant environmental initiative to restore and rejuvenate the Kotha Cheruvu, a critical water body located in the Kokapet area. As part of its corporate social responsibility (CSR) efforts, GEF India is committed to preserve and develop the natural resources for the benefit of the neighbouring communities. The company has contributed ₹1.20 crores towards the restoration and rejuvenation project. This initiative was unveiled by Mr. Sarfaraz Ahmad, I.A.S – Commissioner, HMDA   in the presence of Mr Sreevatsa Kota, I.A.S, Joint Metropolitan Commissioner, HMDA, Ms. Mailaram Nagapurna, Chairman, Narsingi Municipality, Mr. T. Krishna Mohan Reddy, Commissioner, Narsingi municipality, Ms. Archana Suresh, Director, T-SIG, along with Mr. Akshay Chowdhry, Group Vice President, GEF India, Mr. G. Prathap, Director, GEF India and Ms Madhulika Choudhary of Dhruvansh Organization.

Kotha Cheruvu has suffered from rapid urbanization and pollution. The lake, which is vital for the local ecosystem, has seen its water quality deteriorate due to sewage inflow and the growth of aquatic weeds. The restoration project focuses on cleaning the lake, improving water quality, and preserving local biodiversity using latest sustainable and cost-effective technology. Furthermore, the initiative aims to raise awareness in the local community about the importance of sustainable water resource management and ecological conservation.

GEF India is working closely with the Dhruvansh Organization to implement long-term ecological restoration techniques such as water management, waste reduction, and habitat preservation. These measures will not only restore the lake’s natural beauty but will also contribute to a healthier, more sustainable ecosystem, benefitting both aquatic and terrestrial life.

Mr. Sarfaraz Ahmad, I.A.S – Commissioner, HMDA and Ms. Mailaram Nagapurna, Chairman, Narsingi Municipality appreciated the contribution of GEF India and Dhruvansh towards restoration and rejuvenation of Kotha Cheruvu, Kokapet. They highlighted that the initiative will enhance the local ecosystem and provide a valuable resource for the community, fostering a healthier and more sustainable environment for all. They also urged the people in the neighbourhood to ensure that they take up the role of protecting the lake from pollution after the restoration of the lake, and preserve it for the coming generations.

Mr. Akshay Chowdhry, Group Vice President, Gemini Edibles & Fats India Limited, said “Through the adoption of Kotha Cheruvu, Kokapet we are taking meaningful steps toward restoring a vital water body for the community. We are happy to associate with the initiative of the state government to restore and rejuvenate the vital resources like lake for the future generations and encourage sustainable growth of the state. We are proud to support such initiatives that not only preserve nature but also improve the quality of life for the people in this region.”

Adding to this Mr. G. Prathap, Director, Gemini Edibles & Fats India Limited, said “At GEF India, sustainable practices and concern for the environment are ingrained in our corporate philosophy. Our manufacturing units in Kakinada & Krishnapatnam are zero liquid discharge plants. As an extension of this philosophy, we are delighted to associate with the initiative to restore and rejuvenate Kotha Cheruvu, Kokapet, that will help conserve the bio-diversity and sustainable ecosystem for the future generations.”

Ms. Archana Suresh, Director of T-SIG, said, “We are very pleased that GEF India has lent it’s support to conserve the ecological landscape in Hyderabad through the Kotha Cheruvu project in Kokapet. We are thrilled with this partnership that also serves as a testimony to successful CSR collaborations with the Telangana Government.”

GEF India remains deeply committed to sustainability and community welfare through its ongoing CSR initiatives. The recent launch of the Freedom Park initiative, focused on promoting green spaces and environmental stewardship, exemplifies the company’s dedication to ecological well-being. Looking ahead, GEF India will continue to develop and support impactful projects that nurture the environment and benefit the society. These efforts are not only designed to create lasting change today but also to ensure a healthier, more sustainable ecosystem for the future generations.