Carcinogens detected in plastic sheets used for preparing idlis

BENGALURU: Idlis, a popular South Indian dish, are widely prepared across the city. For many city dwellers, idlis are a staple breakfast food. However, a recent report by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has revealed that the plastic sheets used in idli preparation at hotels contain carcinogenic elements.

The report, which has left many people worried, notes that the plastic sheets used to steam idlis contain PFAS (Perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl) chemicals, which are hazardous to human health. When the plastic is heated, these chemicals release toxic substances that can cause cancer.

The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) conducted checks at more than 500 food outlets and found that 35 of them were using plastic sheets to prepare idlis. The department has issued notices to all these establishments and has sent the collected samples for laboratory testing.

The department has decided to ban the use of plastic sheets in food preparation, especially in idli steaming. The move is aimed at ensuring public health and safety.

Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao stated that the use of plastic in food preparation is hazardous and can cause cancer. He warned that strict action will be taken against those who violate the ban on plastic use in food preparation.

Dinesh Gundu Rao said, “The Food Safety Department had collected samples from 251 places and tested them. Earlier, people used to use cloth for preparing idlis, but now they are using plastic. Out of the 251 samples, 52 establishments were found to be using plastic. Action will be taken against them and fines will be imposed”.

“Plastic used for idli preparation for steaming is banned. The plastic contains carcinogenic elements that can cause cancer”, said Dinesh Gundu Rao. “From now on, plastic use in food preparation or serving is prohibited. The use of plastic is officially banned and unauthorized. The public should be careful regarding health”, he added.

Bangalore Hoteliers’ Association president PC Rao clarified, “Reputed hotels do not use plastic for idli preparation. We use non-stick plates and cloth while making idlis. All hotels follow these rules. We have warned hotels not to use plastic”.