Bengaluru, Feb 27: The Karnataka Food Safety Department has uncovered the use of polythene sheets in idli preparation at 52 hotels across the state, Karnataka Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao announced on Thursday.
Rao emphasized that polythene, particularly thin sheets, poses serious health risks due to its carcinogenic properties. He affirmed the government's commitment to eliminating such hazardous practices in the food industry.
"Traditionally, cloth was used to prepare idlis, but recent reports suggested that several hotels have shifted to plastic. Acting on this information, our officials conducted inspections at 251 locations statewide," Rao informed reporters.
Of the establishments inspected, 52 were found to be using plastic sheets. "This is unacceptable because plastic contains carcinogenic elements, which can transfer to idlis during cooking, increasing the risk of cancer," he cautioned.
The minister assured that strict action is being taken against violators and reiterated that plastic usage in food preparation would be strictly prohibited. He urged the public to report any such instances to the authorities for prompt intervention.
This development underscores the state's ongoing efforts to uphold food safety standards and prevent harmful practices in the hospitality sector.
Rao emphasized that polythene, particularly thin sheets, poses serious health risks due to its carcinogenic properties. He affirmed the government's commitment to eliminating such hazardous practices in the food industry.
"Traditionally, cloth was used to prepare idlis, but recent reports suggested that several hotels have shifted to plastic. Acting on this information, our officials conducted inspections at 251 locations statewide," Rao informed reporters.
Of the establishments inspected, 52 were found to be using plastic sheets. "This is unacceptable because plastic contains carcinogenic elements, which can transfer to idlis during cooking, increasing the risk of cancer," he cautioned.
The minister assured that strict action is being taken against violators and reiterated that plastic usage in food preparation would be strictly prohibited. He urged the public to report any such instances to the authorities for prompt intervention.
This development underscores the state's ongoing efforts to uphold food safety standards and prevent harmful practices in the hospitality sector.