No More Plastic in Idli Making, Karnataka Govt Bans Use Over Cancer Concerns

A shocking revelation has emerged about the use of plastic sheets in idli preparation at several hotels and roadside eateries in Bengaluru, raising serious health concerns for consumers. Laboratory tests conducted by the Karnataka Food Safety Department confirmed that nearly 51% of the collected idli samples were unsafe for consumption, prompting the state government to take immediate action.

Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao announced on Thursday that the use of plastic sheets in food preparation and distribution is now banned in hotels and restaurants across the state.

Government Crackdown on Plastic in Food Preparation

Authorities collected 251 samples from various snack bars, hotels, and roadside eateries in Bengaluru. Test results confirmed that 51 samples contained carcinogenic substances, which can cause severe health complications, including cancer.

"Plastic sheets are being used to steam idlis instead of traditional cotton cloth. When exposed to heat, these plastic sheets release toxic, cancer-causing chemicals into the food," Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao said, emphasizing the urgent need for a ban.

Carcinogenic Elements Detected in Idli

Food safety experts have warned that carcinogenic elements, which are directly linked to cancer, have been found in idlis prepared using plastic sheets. Traditionally, cotton cloth was used to steam idlis, but many establishments have switched to plastic as a cost-saving measure.

Following the alarming findings, the Health Department intensified inspections across the city, collecting more samples from different locations. While half of the tested samples were found to be hazardous, results for the remaining samples are still awaited.

Strict Ban and Legal Consequences

The Karnataka government has imposed a strict ban on the use of plastic in food preparation, particularly in hotels, roadside stalls, and restaurants. Authorities have warned that strict action will be taken against businesses found violating the ban.

Meanwhile, the Health Department has urged citizens to report violations, ensuring public safety. With food contamination becoming a pressing issue, officials have assured that further inspections will be conducted to monitor compliance and safeguard consumer health.