Intro: The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has issued a crucial warning to both food vendors and consumers, urging them to immediately cease the use of newspapers for packaging, serving, and storing food items. This stern directive is based on growing concerns about foodborne illnesses linked to the ink found in newspapers.
The Risks of Newspaper Ink: FSSAI CEO G Kamala Vardhana Rao highlighted that the ink used in newspapers contains various bioactive materials with well-known negative health effects. When this ink comes into contact with food, it can lead to contamination and subsequent health issues upon ingestion.
Printing inks used in newspapers often contain chemicals, including lead and heavy metals, which can gradually seep into the food. Over time, such contamination can pose severe health risks. Furthermore, newspapers are exposed to various environmental conditions during distribution, making them vulnerable to contamination by harmful bacteria, viruses, or other pathogens. These contaminants can transfer to the food, potentially causing foodborne illnesses.
Health Implications: Clinical dietitian Garima Goyal emphasized that the consumption of food in contact with newspaper ink can result in digestive problems and even food poisoning. Printing ink consists of harmful chemicals, such as dyes, alcohol, pigments, binders, preservatives, and additives. While small quantities may cause minor stomach upsets, overdosing on these substances can lead to stomach poisoning and other health complications, including cancer-related risks. Vulnerable populations, such as older individuals and children, are particularly at risk due to their weaker immune systems.
Long-term Health Concerns: Dr. Srikanth K P, a consultant in paediatric gastroenterology and hepatology at Manipal Hospital, emphasized that although newspaper ink may not cause immediate issues, chronic exposure can lead to serious health concerns over time. Some people resort to using plastic wrap on top of newspapers to contain the food. However, warm food can dissolve the plastic, posing additional safety risks.
Affecting Taste and Enjoyment: Not only does the ink transfer heavy metals to the food, but it can also impart an undesirable odor to the food, altering its taste and smell. Sensitive individuals may find such food unappetizing, and the ink’s smudging can detract from the overall meal experience, diminishing meal satisfaction.
In conclusion, the FSSAI’s warning against using newspapers for food-related purposes underscores the potential health risks associated with newspaper ink. It is vital for both food providers and consumers to heed this caution and prioritize food safety in their practices.