Plastic Use in Idli Preparation Banned in Karnataka Hotels Over Cancer Risks

New Delhi: The Karnataka Health Department has found that plastic is being used instead of the traditional cloth while cooking idlis in several hotels across the state. After testing 251 samples collected from various locations, the department confirmed that 52 samples contained traces of plastic, raising serious health concerns.  

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.