FSSAI Orders Action Against Unsafe Idli Cooking in Karnataka

Bengaluru: The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has directed the Karnataka State Food Safety Department to take strict action against restaurants using plastic sheets in the steaming process of idlis.  

The move comes after reports surfaced about 52 eateries using plastic, which can release harmful chemicals when exposed to heat, posing serious health risks to consumers.  

Taking serious cognizance of the issue, FSSAI has asked officials to submit a report at the earliest and ensure violators face immediate action. 

Health and Family Welfare Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao confirmed the findings, stating, “Earlier, cloth was used while cooking idlis. However, we received information that some places have started using plastic instead. Our department investigated this and found that out of 251 samples tested, 52 tested positive for plastic usage. This should not be done, as plastic contains carcinogens that could mix with the food.”  

With idlis being a staple food and consumed daily by millions in Karnataka and beyond, the government is urging food vendors to immediately stop the use of plastic and return to safer, traditional cooking methods.