The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has renewed its warning against the use of newspapers for wrapping, serving, or storing food items after a recent inspection involving a popular vada pav vendor in Mumbai. The food safety regulator emphasized that newspapers should not come into direct contact with food due to potential health hazards associated with printing ink and unhygienic handling practices.
Why Newspaper Packaging Is Considered Unsafe
According to FSSAI, newspaper ink contains chemicals, pigments, binders, and heavy metals that can migrate into food, especially when it is hot, oily, or moist. These substances may pose health risks when consumed over a prolonged period. The authority warned that even seemingly harmless practices such as wrapping snacks in newspapers can expose consumers to unwanted contaminants.
Popular Street Foods Under the Scanner
The advisory applies to a wide range of food items commonly sold by street vendors, including vada pav, samosas, pakoras, and other fried snacks. FSSAI clarified that newspapers should not be used for wrapping food, serving food, covering ingredients, or even absorbing excess oil from freshly prepared items. The regulator has urged food business operators to adopt food-grade packaging materials instead.
Triggered by Mumbai Inspection
The latest warning follows a food safety inspection in Mumbai where newspaper-based food packaging practices were reportedly observed. The incident prompted authorities to reiterate existing food safety regulations and remind vendors that newspaper packaging violates food safety norms. The move has sparked discussions among consumers and vendors, particularly because newspaper-wrapped vada pav has long been associated with Mumbai’s street-food culture.
Balancing Tradition and Consumer Safety
While many street food lovers view newspaper packaging as part of the traditional charm of roadside snacks, health experts argue that consumer safety must take priority. Food regulators believe that safer packaging alternatives can help reduce contamination risks without affecting the taste or affordability of popular street foods. The latest advisory forms part of FSSAI’s broader efforts to strengthen food safety standards across the country.
Summary: FSSAI has renewed its warning against using newspapers for wrapping, serving, or storing food after a Mumbai inspection involving a vada pav vendor. The regulator says newspaper ink may contain harmful chemicals and heavy metals that can contaminate food. Vendors have been advised to switch to food-grade packaging materials to ensure consumer safety and hygiene.
