Idlis are among the most famous Indian dishes, and have even gained global recognition. Over time, many health benefits of idlis have been discussed, with many considering them a healthy breakfast option.
But why is the Karnataka government then claiming that there is a link between idlis and cancer?
What Is The Link Between Idlis And Cancer?
The Food Safety Department of Karnataka recently conducted a drive to sample 251 idlis collected from hotels and roadside vendors across the city. However, reports claim that the survey found that 54 samples were unsafe for consumption.
The health department officials in their report claimed that several of them had carcinogenic substances.
Carcinogens are certain substances found in one’s environment, food, and whose exposure can cause cancer in a person.
Read More: Microplastics Found In Indian Sugar And Salt; How It Impacts Us
The cause of these idlis potentially causing cancer was found to be the sheets used during the making of this dish. According to reports, the idlis that were found to have carcinogenic substances were made using polythene sheets.
This is hazardous as thin polythene sheets are considered carcinogenic, especially because they release harmful chemicals when exposed to heat.
The process of making idlis includes them being steamed, and it is assumed that using plastic sheets during this can lead to the idlis absorbing those toxic chemicals, and in turn, becoming carcinogenic, potentially leading to one developing cancer.
Karnataka Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao said “Food Safety department had collected Idli samples at 251 places across Karnataka. Earlier clothes were used for cooking Idlis but we got the information that recently the hotels have started using plastic. So our officers went to various spots and conducted an inquiry,” as quoted by PTI.
He added “The hoteliers should have never done it because plastic is carcinogenic, which means that it can cause cancer. Those carcinogenic elements can enter Idli.”
This has also resulted in a ban on the use of plastic in the food industry with Rao stating in an X/Twitter post that “Our Health Department has banned plastic sheets for steaming idlis in hotels across Karnataka. Toxic chemicals from plastic can leach into food, posing serious health risks, including cancer. Hotels must immediately stop using plastic & switch to safer alternatives like steel plates or banana leaves. Strict action will be taken against violators, public health is non-negotiable! If you spot plastic being used in food preparation, report it! Let’s ensure safe, healthy food for all.”
He also said “Plastic is a carcinogenic material that can leach into food, making it unsafe for consumption. This practice is prohibited, and we have taken action against those involved, imposing fines and ensuring that this practice is halted.”
Dr Kanchan Kaur also commented on how the rise of plastic usage can certainly be considered as an increased risk for cancer. She said “Cancer cases are on the rise and nobody really knows why. Then we start looking at things that have changed over the past few decades like the increased use of plastic. Most cancers are related to your lifestyle choices like smoking which can be prevented. However, there are many hidden chemicals around us which can also increase your cancer risk.”
She further said “Plastic use over the last few decades has not been just associated with higher cancer risk but also other diseases like reproductive disorders, PCOS, infertility, Alzheimer’s and neurological issues. However, it is very difficult to conduct a scientific study that gives you a cause-effect. But there is enough data that shows that chemicals in plastics particularly BPA and phthalates are associated with cancer.”
Image Credits: Google Images
Sources: The Economic Times, The Indian Express, Firstpost
Find the blogger: @chirali_08
This post is tagged under: Idlis, Idlis cancer, Karnataka, Karnataka govt, Karnataka health department, Karnataka health department plastic ban, Karnataka plastic ban, plastic ban, plastic, health risk
Disclaimer: We do not hold any right, or copyright over any of the images used, these have been taken from Google. In case of credits or removal, the owner may kindly mail us.
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