Karnataka Implements Plastic Ban in Idli Preparation for Health Safety
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Synopsis
The Karnataka government has initiated a ban on plastic use in the preparation of idlis in hotels and food establishments, citing health risks identified through testing. Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao urged the adoption of safer alternatives to protect public health.
Key Takeaways
- Bengaluru enforces a ban on plastic in idli making.
- Health tests reveal serious risks from plastic.
- Safer options like stainless steel and banana leaves are encouraged.
- Fines and legal actions will be taken against violators.
- Public health awareness campaigns will be initiated.
Bengaluru, Feb 27 (NationPress) The government of Karnataka has announced a prohibition on the use of plastic in hotels and food outlets throughout the state during the preparation of idlis. This decision follows tests indicating significant health risks posed to consumers, as stated by Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao on Thursday.
Idli, a widely consumed dish in the state, is created from rice batter. Numerous hotels and food establishments utilize plastic sheets for pouring the batter and steaming the idlis.
“Plastic in food preparation is a serious public health hazard. When employed in idli preparation, harmful chemicals from plastic leach into the food, elevating health risks for consumers. I urge all hotels and food establishments to cease this practice immediately and switch to safer alternatives like stainless steel plates or banana leaves. Public health cannot be compromised,” the Health Minister emphasized.
“The Food and Safety Department has evaluated food samples from 251 hotels and eateries statewide, identifying 51 samples as unsafe. The rising use of plastic in idli preparation is alarming and poses severe health risks. To protect public health, the utilization of plastic in cooking idlis is now firmly prohibited,” he added.
An official notification regarding this ban will be issued within two days, he indicated.
Historically, cotton cloth was the material of choice for cooking idlis, but it has largely been replaced by plastic in most hotels. “Following complaints, our officers conducted an investigation. Plastic should never be used, as it is carcinogenic and can contaminate the idlis during cooking. There’s no justification for its use, as it certainly has detrimental health implications,” Gundu Rao stated.
In response to this situation, fines will be levied, and legal action will be pursued against individuals found using plastic for idli preparation. The department will also launch awareness campaigns to reinforce this message. Under no circumstances should plastic be utilized in idli preparation, as it is now officially banned, the minister stressed.
