Buying hot pakoras, samosas, vada pav, or other snacks wrapped in old newspapers may soon become a thing of the past. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has intensified its crackdown on the practice of packaging and serving food in newspapers and printed papers, citing serious health concerns.
The food regulator has warned that food business operators found using newspapers for packaging food items may face action under food safety regulations. The move comes amid growing concerns over the harmful effects of chemicals present in newspaper ink.
Mumbai Incident Triggers Fresh Enforcement Drive
The issue recently came into focus after a vada pav vendor in Mumbai was reportedly found serving food wrapped in newspapers. Following the incident, the FSSAI and the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) carried out joint inspections and enforcement activities.
Taking the matter seriously, FSSAI’s western regional office has issued a fresh advisory to food vendors, reminding them that newspapers are not safe or suitable for food packaging under any circumstances.
Why Is Food Wrapped in Newspapers Dangerous?
Health experts and food safety authorities have repeatedly warned against the use of newspapers for packing food, especially hot and oily items.
Toxic Chemicals in Newspaper Ink
The ink used in newspapers contains various chemical substances, including solvents, pigments, and heavy metals. These chemicals are not meant for direct contact with food and can pose health risks if consumed.
Hot and Oily Foods Absorb Chemicals Easily
Street foods such as samosas, pakoras, bhajis, and other fried snacks are often served hot. The heat and oil can cause harmful chemicals from the newspaper ink to migrate into the food, increasing the risk of contamination.
Long-Term Health Risks
According to health experts, prolonged consumption of food contaminated by printing ink and chemicals may increase the risk of serious illnesses, including certain forms of cancer and other health complications.
Children, Pregnant Women Most Vulnerable
Medical professionals warn that children, pregnant women, and elderly people are particularly vulnerable to the harmful effects of chemical contamination because of their comparatively weaker immunity and greater sensitivity to toxins.
Dr. Suryaprakash Choudhury stated that regularly consuming food wrapped in newspapers or printed paper can pose significant health hazards and may contribute to long-term health problems.
FSSAI Recommends Safe Alternatives
To ensure food safety, FSSAI has directed vendors and food establishments to immediately stop using newspapers and instead adopt food-grade packaging materials.
Recommended alternatives include:
- Butter paper
- Food-grade wrapping sheets
- Certified paper bags
- Food-grade containers and packaging materials
These materials are specifically designed for food contact and do not contain harmful chemicals that can contaminate food.
Consumers Urged to Stay Alert
Food safety experts emphasize that ensuring safe food practices is not solely the responsibility of regulators but also of consumers and vendors.
Authorities have urged citizens to object if they find food being served or packed in newspapers and to encourage vendors to adopt safer packaging methods. Consumers are advised to be especially cautious when purchasing hot and oily foods from roadside stalls and local eateries.
More Inspections Expected in Coming Days
Sources indicate that food safety authorities are likely to intensify inspections and enforcement drives in the coming weeks to ensure compliance with packaging regulations.
With food safety becoming an increasing public health priority, regulators hope that stricter enforcement and greater public awareness will help eliminate the widespread practice of serving food in newspapers and printed paper.