The Karnataka Health Department has taken a decisive step to safeguard public health by banning the use of polythene sheets for steaming idlis in hotels across the state. The move follows inspections by the Food Safety Department, which revealed that 51 out of 251 hotels sampled were using thin plastic sheets in the idli preparation process—a practice deemed a serious public health hazard.
Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao emphasized the dangers of using plastic in food preparation, stating that toxic chemicals from plastic can leach into food during cooking, posing severe health risks. “Plastic in food preparation is carcinogenic and a grave threat to public health. I urge all hotels and food establishments to switch to safer alternatives such as stainless steel plates or banana leaves,” the Minister stated in a post on X (formerly Twitter).
The inspections highlighted a troubling trend of replacing traditional materials like cotton cloth with carcinogenic plastic sheets for steaming idlis. “This practice cannot be tolerated in the hospitality industry, which plays a significant role in the food ecosystem. Hotels must prioritize customer safety over convenience,” the Minister added.
The state has initiated action against violators, and a strict ban on the use of plastic in food preparation has been enforced. Hoteliers found flouting the rules will face penalties, and the public has been encouraged to report any continued use of plastic sheets in cooking.
This crackdown is a wake-up call for the hospitality industry in Karnataka to adopt sustainable and safe practices in food preparation. Restaurants and hotels are urged to return to traditional methods, ensuring the well-being of their customers and compliance with food safety standards.
Source: The Hindu
