The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI), Western Region, in an attempt to uplift the food packaging sector has directed all food business to immediately stop using newspapers for packing parcels for take away or serving food warning that the practice poses serious health risks to consumers.
The advisory followed after a Vada Pav vendor in Mumbai was found serving food on a newspaper. Following which, FSSAIs Western Region and Municipal Corporation of Greater Mumbai issued the warning notice jointly.
The food regulator has warned that newspaper is not safe to use as the ink on newspapers contains chemicals, binders and pigments besides heavy metals that may seep into food served. Officials citing health concerns citing repeated exposure to such substances can potentially led to long term health issues. They also pointed that the newspaper travels multiple environments before it reaches the vendor gathering microbes making the customer vulnerable to infection.
The regulator added that it is working closely with state authorities to strengthen enforcement under food safety laws while also promoting safer and more sustainable packaging practices in the food sector.
What Outlets Should Replace Their Packaging?
- Street food vendors
- Restaurants
- Cloud kitchens
- Caterers
- Quick-service restaurants
- Hawkers and mobile food vendors
- Small retailers and food stalls
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