Islamabad: A recent survey by Gallup and Gilani Pakistan has revealed that Banaspati ghee is the most commonly used cooking oil in Pakistani households, with 33% of participants selecting it as their primary choice. The survey highlighted a significant preference for Banaspati ghee among rural respondents, with 36% opting for it, compared to 29% of urban respondents.
The survey involved a nationally representative sample of 724 adult men and women from both urban and rural areas across Pakistan. Participants were asked, “Please tell us, which type of oil do you mostly use for cooking at home?” In response, 33% named Banaspati ghee, while 21% preferred cooking oil, 5% chose canola or sunflower oil, and 1% opted for olive oil. Additionally, 29% provided other responses, and 11% were uncertain or did not respond.
The study, conducted between April 16 and April 30, 2025, was performed via telephonic surveys using the Computer-Assisted Telephone Interviewing (CATI) method. The margin of error for the survey is estimated to be approximately ± 2-3 percent at a 95% confidence level. Gallup and Gilani Pakistan, the local affiliate of Gallup International, carried out the research.
The findings underscore the prominence of Banaspati ghee in Pakistani culinary practices, particularly in rural regions, and provide insights into the oil preferences of households throughout the country.