A viral video circulating across social media platforms claiming that ants gathered around a car’s fuel filler cap because of E20 petrol has been dismissed by Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL), which said the assertion has no scientific basis.
In an official clarification, the state-run oil marketing company termed the video misleading and stressed that ethanol-blended petrol does not possess any properties that would attract ants or other insects.
Viral |Ant Swarms to Ethanol Blended Fuel
Fuel Ethanol Contains No Residual Sugars
BPCL explained that fuel grade ethanol used for blending with petrol is produced through a rigorous process of fermentation and distillation. These processes eliminate residual sugars, ensuring that the final product contains no sweet substances that could attract insects.
The company further noted that fuel ethanol is treated with denaturants chemical additives that make it unsuitable for human consumption and are naturally repellent to insects.
Petrol Odour Remains Dominant in E20 Blend
According to BPCL, once ethanol is blended with petrol, the characteristic hydrocarbon smell of petrol continues to dominate, masking any inherent odour of ethanol.
The company also pointed out that ethanol-blended petrol generates lower fuel vapour compared to conventional petrol. Consequently, there is no identifiable attractant associated with E20 fuel that could cause ants to congregate around vehicle fuel caps.
Experts Reject Misinformation Surrounding E20 Fuel
The clarification comes amid growing misinformation on social media regarding the government’s E20 fuel programme, which aims to increase the share of ethanol in petrol to reduce dependence on imported crude oil and lower carbon emissions.
BPCL emphasised that scientific evidence does not support claims that E20 petrol attracts ants. The company urged consumers to rely on verified information and avoid being influenced by unsubstantiated content circulating online.
Bharat Petroleum Corporation
Company Urges Public to Trust Verified Information
Reiterating its position, BPCL said allegations linking E20 fuel to insect activity are unfounded and misleading. The company maintained that there is no chemical or biological mechanism by which ethanol-blended petrol could attract ants, underscoring that the viral claims are devoid of scientific merit.
The clarification seeks to allay concerns among vehicle owners and reinforce confidence in the use of E20 fuel, which is being promoted as part of India’s broader energy transition strategy.