Microplastic Pakode Video Leaves Public Disgusted
A shocking video from Ludhiana, Punjab, has gone viral, showing a street food vendor dipping plastic pouches of oil directly into boiling oil while preparing pakode. The disturbing practice has quickly been dubbed “microplastic pakode” on social media, triggering widespread outrage and serious health concerns.
The Viral Incident
The video, originally shared by food blogger Harry Uppal, shows the vendor tossing a sealed plastic oil pouch into a pan of hot oil. As the pouch dissolves and splits in the boiling oil, the vendor then pours the oil into the vessel to continue frying the pakode.
According to the vendor, this method was used to make it “easier” to open the pouch. However, viewers were alarmed at seeing plastic come into direct contact with boiling oil, raising fears about toxic chemical contamination in the food.
Why Experts Are Alarmed
When plastic is exposed to very high temperatures, such as boiling oil, it can release harmful chemicals and microplastics. These substances may mix with the food being cooked, posing potential long-term health risks such as:
- Digestive issues caused by ingesting microplastics
- Toxic chemical exposure, which may affect liver and kidney function
- Increased risk of cancer due to harmful compounds released during plastic melting
This is why health experts strongly advise against using plastic in food preparation, especially under high heat.
Public Outrage and Online Reactions
The clip, captioned “Come hungry, leave speechless,” quickly spread across Instagram and X . Social media users expressed anger, disgust, and deep concern.
Some sarcastic comments included:
- “Pakode now with new plastic flavour.”
- “Come hungry, leave with cancer.”
- “Microplastic committed suicide here.”
Others directly tagged health authorities, urging immediate investigation and strict action against unsafe food practices.
Growing Concerns Around Street Food Safety
This incident has reignited conversations about food safety and hygiene standards at street food stalls in India. While street food is popular for its affordability and taste, such incidents highlight the urgent need for:
- Regular inspections of food stalls
- Strict enforcement of food safety regulations
- Awareness campaigns to educate vendors about harmful cooking practices
Conclusion
The viral “microplastic pakode” video has served as a wake-up call, reminding the public and authorities alike about the hidden dangers of unsafe street food preparation methods. While food lovers enjoy the taste of pakode and other snacks, health experts emphasise that safety must come first, as consuming food contaminated with melted plastic can have serious long-term consequences.
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.