Key Update

A recent video of a street vendor in Ludhiana preparing pakoras has sparked widespread concern about food safety in India. Captured near Gill Chowk, the video went viral after being reposted on social media platforms like X, drawing millions of views and strong reactions from health experts and the public alike.

Plastic in Hot Oil: A Dangerous Shortcut

In the video, the vendor holds multiple oil pouches and drops them directly into a hot kadhai without cutting them open. The plastic melts on contact with the hot oil, causing the contents to spill into the pan. When a vlogger questions him about this method, the vendor casually replies that the plastic melts instantly and serves the purpose. He then continues to fry bread pakoras filled with aloo-methi (potato and fenugreek) and also prepares a street-style version of hot dogs, all priced at just ₹10. Viewers also spot him dipping his bare hands into a large container of batter while transferring food into the hot oil, raising further concerns about hygiene and safety.

Toxic Practices and Public Health Risks

Health professionals have strongly condemned this cooking practice. Experts explain that dipping plastic into hot oil can release toxic chemicals like dioxins, phthalates, BPA, and styrene. These chemicals leach into the oil and contaminate the food, posing serious long-term health risks. From hormonal disruptions to increased cancer risk, the potential dangers are severe. Public health advocates and experts have urged authorities like FSSAI and local food safety officials to investigate and take immediate action. The incident has reignited the debate around the safety of unregulated street food and the urgent need for better enforcement of food safety standards.

Source: NDTV