52 Restaurants in Karnataka Exposed for Unsafe Idlis
The Karnataka Food Safety Department has discovered that 52 restaurants across the state used plastic sheets instead of traditional cloth to steam idlis. Karnataka Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao confirmed this on Thursday, emphasizing the serious health risks associated with this practice.
Health Risks of Using Plastic in Food Preparation
Plastic, particularly thin polythene sheets, poses severe health hazards. According to experts, harmful chemicals from plastic can seep into food when exposed to heat, increasing the risk of long-term health problems, including cancer. Minister Rao warned that such practices should never have been adopted, as plastic is known to be carcinogenic.
Large-Scale Inspections Conducted
Food safety officials collected idli samples from 251 locations across Karnataka after receiving reports of restaurants using plastic sheets. Upon investigation, 52 establishments were found violating food safety norms by using plastic in the cooking process.
Government’s Strict Measures
Following these findings, the Karnataka government has assured strict action against the violators. Minister Rao stated that plastic will not be allowed in food preparation, and offenders will face serious consequences. He urged the public to report any instances of plastic use in cooking to the authorities
Conclusion
This is not the first time the Karnataka government has taken steps to improve food safety. In 2024, the state banned the use of Rhodamine-B, a harmful food coloring agent commonly found in dishes like gobi manchurian and cotton candy. Officials found that this chemical posed significant health risks, leading to strict regulations. Violators could face up to seven years or life imprisonment, along with fines of up to ₹10 lakh.
The government remains committed to ensuring food safety and protecting public health by enforcing strict regulations against hazardous food practices.
Source: Inputs from various media Sources
Priya Bairagi
Reviewed by Dr Aarti Nehra (MBBS, MMST)
I’m a pharmacist with a strong background in health sciences. I hold a BSc from Delhi University and a pharmacy degree from PDM University. I write articles and daily health news while interviewing doctors to bring you the latest insights. In my free time, you’ll find me at the gym or lost in a sci-fi novel.
