For Indians, idli is regarded as one of the healthiest foods. It doesn't require any oil or spices to cook, and it's easy to stomach. However, according to the karnataka Food Safety Department, the same idli may be dangerous or even cause cancer if prepared the way some restaurants and sellers do. Let's examine.

Agents that cause cancer in Idli
 
In Bengaluru, health department inspectors gathered around 500 samples of idlis prepared at about 251 hotels and roadside sellers. Laboratory research revealed that 51 of these samples were dangerous.
 
The Times of india claims that phthalates, bisphenol A (BPA), and other endocrine-disrupting chemicals are present in many plastic sheets and can be absorbed into food when cooked.
 
 It generates microplastics and poisons that build up in the body over time, raising the risk of cancer, especially prostate and breast cancer.
 
 According to reports, these substances are also connected to metabolic diseases and hormone abnormalities.
 
 The authorities stated that they may recommend a full ban on the use of plastic in the food industry based on the findings of the remaining tests.
 Prohibition of plastic use in the food sector
 
 According to karnataka health minister Dinesh Gundu Rao, 52 hotels in the state were making idlis with polythene sheets.
 
He claims that because polythene is carcinogenic, using it—especially thin sheets—poses major health concerns.
 Plastic is a carcinogen that can contaminate food, rendering it unfit for human consumption.  "We have taken action against those involved, imposing fines and ensuring that this practice is halted," Rao stated. "This practice is prohibited."
 He said, "If anyone continues to use it, the public should report it to the authorities."
 
 The action is a component of the state's broader effort to enforce food safety laws.
 
 "We are educating both the food industry and consumers about the dangers of using carcinogenic materials in cooking," Rao stated.
 
PC Rao, the president of the hotel organization, spoke against the usage of hazardous plastics in hotel food preparation.
 
 According to a comment from News18, "No reputable hotels use plastic covers when preparing idli."  All hotels have previously received our warning against this behavior.
 It's not the first time
 
 
 Earlier this month, the karnataka government decided to cease providing peanut chikki bars to the government and assisted schools as part of the midday meal program.
 
 Concerns over the nutritional value and safety of these sweets, which were sold as an alternative to eggs, prompted the change.
 
A february 17 directive listed a number of difficulties with the chikkis, including high levels of unsaturated fats and carbs, as well as problems with quality control and storage.
 
 About 30% of the 5.5 million children in karnataka who benefit from the midday meal program choose to swap bananas or chikkis for other foods.  at collaboration with the state government, the Azim Premji Foundation provided funding for the distribution of chikkis, eggs, and bananas at schools.
 
 The food coloring substance Rhodamine-B, which is frequently used in foods like cotton candy and gobi Manchurian, was outlawed by the state government in 2024.
 
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Idlis

SIBY JEYYA

01/03/2025 08:55 AM