Bengaluru’s beloved idlis are under scrutiny as a shocking practice emerges—some eateries have been using plastic sheets instead of traditional cotton cloths to line idli steam plates. This shortcut, aimed at reducing cleaning efforts, comes at a dangerous cost.
Health experts warn that when exposed to steaming temperatures above 100°C, these plastic sheets release toxic chemicals like phthalates, dioxins, and bisphenol-A (BPA), which can seep into food. These substances are linked to serious health risks, including hormone imbalances, reproductive disorders, and even cancer.
In response to the alarming findings, the Karnataka health department has launched state-wide inspections. So far, 24 out of 254 eateries have been served notices for using plastic in food preparation. Officials are now pushing for a return to traditional and safer alternatives like banana leaves, which not only enhance flavor but also eliminate the risk of chemical contamination.
As this issue unfolds, consumers are urged to stay vigilant and question food preparation methods when dining out to ensure their meals are safe and toxin-free.
