After years of having its product’s substantial health benefits overshadowed by misinformation about its environmental practices, Malaysia is the first country to certify the sustainability of its palm oil. Under this mandatory program, all Malaysian palm oil producers must be certified by January 1, 2020. Palm oil is Malaysia’s number one export, and accounts for approximately more than 50 percent of the palm oil imported into the U.S.
With Malaysian Sustainable Palm Oil (MSPO) certification, harvesting and shipping will be traceable giving importers and consumers the assurance that they are getting pure, authentic, non-GMO palm oil. “MSPO certification is yet another strong tactic that Malaysia is using to lead the world by example,” said Malaysian Palm Oil Council CEO Dr. Kalyana Sundram. “We are intentionally paving the way for other countries who rely on the authenticity of their products, such as Italy with its olive oil, to ensure the trade and consumers that their products are pure and responsibly produced.”