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Sometimes the things we love can hurt us the most. We’re talking amazing, delicious street food here. And no matter how sad it may sound to street food lovers (which is all of us), it’s true. Sometimes the way they are manufactured and distributed can cause many diseases.
In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Rekha Sharma, Consultant Physician, Ruby Hall, Wanowry said, “Indian street food is a vibrant reflection of the rich cultural diversity of the country. Being an Indian, it is difficult to resist street food. However, as with all indulgences, there is a risk of health problems if not prepared or cared for properly.
Also Read: From Pani Puri to ice cream, 6 street foods you should avoid this summer to avoid digestive problems
Dr. Rekha Sharma relates food poisoning to the most common street foods we know:
Panipuri (golgappa):
The water used in Panipuri often comes from local taps or questionable sources, which may contain bacteria, viruses or parasites. If water is not filtered or treated, it can lead to waterborne diseases such as E.coli, Salmonella and Hepatitis A.
Also read: How does food become contaminated? Unsafe habits that kill more than 400K people every year
Vada Pav:
Improper storage of chutney or pakodas at room temperature for too long can lead to bacterial growth and food poisoning from Staphylococcus aureus or Clostridium perfringens.
Samosa:
If samosas are not cooked properly or stored at safe temperatures, they can become a breeding ground for harmful bacteria, especially in its fillings. Improper handling or use of expired ingredients such as potatoes or oil can lead to contamination with bacteria such as salmonella or E.coli.
Kebab:
Undercooked meat or meat stored at the wrong temperature may contain bacteria such as Salmonella, Campylobacter or Listeria. Its consumption can cause food poisoning.
Also Read: Food poisoning for weight gain: Here’s why you need to give up mayonnaise
Licking:
Chaat is usually served with ingredients that are left at room temperature for a long time, this can cause ingredients like curd and chutney to become contaminated with bacteria. Its consumption may increase the risk of food-borne diseases.
Dr. Tamorish Kole, Director – Emergency Medicine, DPU Super Specialty Hospital, Pimpri, Pune shared some precautionary measures for consumers and sellers:
For consumers:
- Don’t eat from any unknown street food stall, especially when visiting a new city.
- Inquire with locals about good, clean food stall vendors.
- Maintain hand hygiene (before eating).
- Inspect the vendor’s practices, cleanliness and safe water.
For sellers:
- Maintain personal hygiene and sanitation standards.
- Food should be prepared with clean water.
- Do not sell cut fruits – the risk of contamination is high.
- Meat should be cooked thoroughly and food should be properly handled safely.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your doctor with any questions you may have about a medical condition.
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