FSSAI warns against using newspapers for wrapping, storing food; here’s why

“The ink used in newspapers contains various bioactive materials with known negative health effects, which can contaminate food and lead to health issues when ingested,” said CEO of FSSAI, G Kamala Vardhana Rao.

The directive noted that printing inks may contain chemicals, including lead and heavy metals that can leach into the food which can pose serious health risks over time. The FSSAI also added that newspapers are often subjected to “various environmental conditions during distribution, making them susceptible to contamination by bacteria, viruses or other pathogens that may transfer to the food, potentially causing food-borne illnesses”.

Clinical dietitian Garima Goyal mentioned that it may cause digestive issues and may also cause food poisoning. “Printing ink contains harmful chemicals – dyes, alcohol, pigments, binders, preservatives, and additives. When consumed in small quantities, these substances cause minor stomach upset. However, overdose can cause stomach poisoning and also lead to cancer-related health complications. Older people and children are at a greater risk as their immune system is weaker,” she said.

The ink in these papers can dissolve into the food, noted Dr Srikanth K P, consultant, paediatric gastroenterology and hepatology, Manipal Hospital, Old Airport Road, Whitefield and Sarjapur, Bangalore. “It may not cause an immediate problem, but in the long run, chronic exposure may bring serious health concerns endangering life. Some people use plastic on top of the newspaper to wrap the food. But again, warm food can dissolve the plastic which is definitely not safe,” said Dr Srikanth.

Not only do the heavy metals from the ink get transferred to the food wrapped in newspaper, but also the paper’s odour may get transferred to the food, altering its taste and smell.

“Sensitive individuals may find such a food unpalatable. Additionally, it can smudge and make your experience less visually appealing, diminishing the enjoyment you derive from your meal. This detracts from the overall experience, which is an important aspect of meal satisfaction,” said Goyal.

Here’s how your gut health is affected (Source: Getty Images/Thinkstock)

What are some of the alternatives and what should be kept in mind?

Food vendors should use suitable packaging material that is environmentally friendly and does not pose a health risk, Goyal noted.

– Insulated containers should be used for food items like soups and stews. We need to fill the container with boiling water, let it stand for up to a few minutes, and then add hot food after emptying it. The process helps minimise bacterial contamination.
– Perishable food items that cannot be put in refrigerators while travelling outside should be kept cold by putting in freezer gel packs or a frozen box.

– One should serve food in materials like stainless steel, dry leaves, or glass vessels instead
– It is always advisable to rinse fresh fruits and vegetables under running water before consuming and packing them in containers.
– Packaging materials like paper, plastic bags, food wraps, and aluminum foil should not be re-used to avoid cross-contamination.

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