Report

On Saturday, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) instructed the Karnataka government to provide a report on using plastic sheets to prepare idli at certain food establishments. This directive comes after reports surfaced about restaurants in Karnataka using plastic sheets during the idli steaming process.

Food Safety Concerns Over Plastic Leaching Chemicals

The FSSAI raised concerns about the potential health risks posed by the use of plastic in food preparation. It warned that low-grade or non-food-safe plastics could leach harmful chemicals such as bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates when exposed to high temperatures. These chemicals can seep into food, creating a significant health hazard.

Karnataka Health Department Takes Action

The Karnataka Health Department had already acted by prohibiting the use of plastic in idli preparation after food inspectors tested 251 idli samples. The tests revealed that 51 of the samples were contaminated. Following these findings, the department banned the use of plastic sheets for steaming idlis in hotels across the state.

FSSAI Demands Swift Action

G Kamala Vardhana Rao, CEO of FSSAI, emphasized the importance of using food-safe materials in food preparation. She explained that food businesses must avoid using harmful plastic sheets that could pose a risk to public health. FSSAI instructed the Karnataka State Food Safety Department to take immediate and strict action against food establishments violating this regulation.

Health Minister Warns Against Plastic’s Dangers

State Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao also expressed concerns on social media, citing the potential health dangers of using plastic in food preparation. He highlighted that toxic substances from plastic could lead to serious health issues, including cancer. The minister reiterated that the Health Department’s decision was based on thorough testing by the Food Safety Department.

Enforcing Safe Food Practices

FSSAI stressed the need for food establishments to use only approved, food-grade materials in food preparation to ensure safety and hygiene. The authority urged Karnataka officials to collaborate with them closely to investigate the matter and enforce measures to eliminate the use of plastic sheets in food preparation.

Source: Business Standard