Palm Conversations International India Conference Focuses on Palm Oil Research and Diet

The inaugural Palm Conversations International India 2026 (PCI) conference was held under the theme ‘Bioactive power from the palm: Reimagining health for a world facing non-communicable diseases (NCDs)’. Hosted by the Malaysian Palm Oil Council (MPOC), the event brought together researchers, healthcare professionals, nutrition experts, policymakers, and industry stakeholders to examine emerging evidence on Malaysian palm oil and its naturally occurring bioactive compounds.

The conference served as a platform for MPOC to continue building scientific and trade ties with India, which remains one of Malaysia’s largest palm oil export markets. Belvinder Sron, Chief Executive Officer of MPOC, stated that the event provides a platform for open, evidence-based scientific dialogue to explore how science and nutrition can contribute to healthier lives, while deepening collaboration between Malaysia and India in science, nutrition, healthcare, and innovation.

Scientific presentations at the conference called for a broader understanding of palm oil that goes beyond its fat content. Experts emphasized taking into account overall dietary intake, molecular structure, cooking behaviour, and health outcomes. Vishal Malhotra, Senior Consultant – Healthcare at Makreo Research and Consulting, India, noted that India’s annual per-capita edible oil consumption is approximately 23.5 kg, compared to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) recommended level of around 12 kg, highlighting the importance of balanced diets.

A review of cardiovascular evidence presented at the conference screened 4,515 citations and found no consistent association between palm oil consumption and heart disease, stroke, or cardiovascular mortality, while acknowledging limitations in the available evidence. Presentations also highlighted that palm oil’s naturally semi-solid structure allows it to provide functionality without partial hydrogenation, distinguishing it from industrial trans fats. Its thermal and oxidative stability was also discussed as a relevant consideration in cooking practices.

The conference also examined the emerging science of palm-derived bioactives, specifically tocotrienols and palm phenolics, and their potential relevance to NCDs. Roger Clemens, Adjunct Professor at the University of Southern California, USA, discussed early research exploring their potential role in areas including cardiovascular health and inflammation. Experts stressed that this remains an evolving area of research, with further studies needed to establish safety, dosage, bioavailability, and clinical significance.

Furthermore, experts emphasized that palm-derived bioactives are an emerging area of study and are not substitutes for established NCD prevention or treatment. The discussions called for moving beyond perceptions and labels to evaluate balanced diets, cooking practices, and clinical evidence. The event received support from the Indian Medical Association, the International Association of Dietitians for Metabolic Health and Nutrition, and the Oil Technologists’ Association of India.

"Industry dialogues that bring together scientific research, trade bodies, and policymakers are crucial for transparency and evidence-based decision-making. As consumer markets like India navigate complex patterns in food consumption and health, stakeholder engagements focusing on clinical data, dietary balance, and practical industry applications help ground commercial practices in verified science rather than general perceptions." — Dr. Shishir Gupta, Founder & CEO, StartupLanes