Karnataka to Ban Plastic in Idli Making Due to Health Risks

Bengaluru (The Uttam Hindu): The Karnataka government has decided to ban the use of plastic in the preparation of idlis, a popular dish in the state, after tests revealed that plastic poses significant health hazards. Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao announced the decision on Thursday, stressing the need for safer alternatives.

Idlis, made from rice batter, are often prepared by pouring the batter onto plastic sheets and steaming it in many hotels and food establishments across the state. However, the Health Minister pointed out that using plastic in food preparation leads to the leaching of toxic chemicals, increasing health risks for consumers. "Plastic in food preparation is a serious public health hazard," Gundu Rao stated. "I urge all hotels and food establishments to immediately stop this practice and adopt safer alternatives like stainless steel plates or banana leaves."

Tests conducted by the Food and Safety Department on food samples from 251 hotels and eateries found 51 samples to be unsafe. The increasing use of plastic in idli preparation has raised concerns, prompting the government to implement the ban. An official notification regarding the ban will be issued within two days.

The Health Minister also noted that while cotton cloth was previously used to cook idlis, many establishments have switched to plastic. "Plastic should not be used because it is carcinogenic and can mix with the idlis during cooking," he explained. "There is no justification for using plastic, as it will surely have a negative impact on health."

To enforce the ban, fines and legal action will be taken against those caught using plastic for idli preparation. The department will also run awareness campaigns to highlight the dangers of plastic in food preparation.