In a significant advisory, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued a plea to both consumers and food vendors, urging them to discontinue the use of newspapers for packing, serving, and storing food products. Expressing deep concerns over the widespread use of newspapers in this context, G Kamala Vardhana Rao, the CEO of FSSAI, has underscored the substantial health hazards associated with this practice, aiming to raise awareness among all stakeholders.
Rao elucidated that newspapers are routinely exposed to diverse environmental conditions during distribution, rendering them highly susceptible to contamination by bacteria, viruses, or other pathogens. These contaminants can subsequently transfer to the food, posing a substantial risk of foodborne illnesses and various health complications upon ingestion.
Furthermore, FSSAI has highlighted a lesser-known yet critical aspect of this issue: the ink used in newspapers. It contains several bioactive materials that are known to have adverse health effects. Additionally, printing inks may contain chemicals, including lead and heavy metals, which can potentially leach into the food items they come into contact with, leading to severe health concerns over time.
This advisory from FSSAI serves as a stark reminder of the importance of safe food practices and the need for vigilance in every aspect of food handling, from packaging to consumption. The health and well-being of consumers are paramount, and responsible food packaging and handling are crucial steps in safeguarding public health.
As a result, both consumers and food vendors are strongly encouraged to explore safe and hygienic alternatives to newspaper packaging, which can significantly reduce the risks associated with foodborne illnesses and long-term health effects.
Stay tuned for further developments in food safety and regulations as India continues to prioritize the health and safety of its citizens.