The Karnataka government has officially banned the use of plastic in idli preparation across all hotels in the state after the Health Minister flagged the presence of carcinogenic elements in plastic sheets used during cooking.
Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao announced the decision on Thursday after the Karnataka Food Safety Department discovered that 52 hotels in the state were using polythene sheets instead of the traditional cloth while preparing idlis. The ban aims to prevent harmful chemicals from contaminating food and posing severe health risks to consumers.
Food Safety Tests Reveal Harmful Practices
The Food Safety Department conducted extensive testing, collecting 251 idli samples from various hotels and eateries statewide. According to the minister, the investigation confirmed that 52 of those samples tested positive for plastic contamination.
“Previously, cloth was used while cooking idlis, but we received information that some establishments have switched to using plastic sheets. Since plastic contains carcinogens, this can enter the idli during the steaming process and pose health risks,” Minister Gundu Rao stated during a press briefing.
The Health Department is set to issue official orders ensuring strict enforcement of the ban. Establishments found violating the rule by using plastic sheets in food preparation will face stringent action, including penalties and possible license revocations.
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“This practice is hazardous and unacceptable. We will take the necessary steps to ensure compliance and safeguard public health. The use of plastic in food preparation must stop immediately,” Gundu Rao asserted.
Health Risks of Plastic in Cooking
Medical experts have long warned against using plastic in food preparation, particularly under high heat. Plastic sheets can release harmful chemicals, including known carcinogens, which can leach into food and increase the risk of serious health conditions, including cancer. The Karnataka government’s proactive measures align with global efforts to reduce plastic use in the food industry and promote safer cooking practices.
The decision has sparked mixed reactions from the food industry. While many hotel associations have welcomed the move as a necessary step for public health, some smaller eateries have expressed concerns about transitioning back to traditional cloth methods. The government has assured necessary support and awareness campaigns to ensure a smooth implementation.
This latest action by Karnataka joins a broader initiative to regulate food safety standards and protect consumers from potential health hazards linked to plastic contamination. Authorities have urged the public to report any violations and assist in maintaining hygiene and safety in food preparation.
With enforcement measures set to roll out soon, Karnataka’s crackdown on plastic use in idli cooking serves as a crucial step in ensuring safer food practices across the state.
