Health Risks Explained: Why You Should Never Wrap Food In Newspapers
In a food-obsessed country like India, storing and carrying food can be a task. And one common way is newspapers. However, wrapping food in newspapers can put your health at risk. And this is what you need to do to keep the risks at arm’s length. Impact on health Dr Aravind Badiger, Technical Director at BDR Pharmaceuticals International Pvt. Ltd, explains that newspapers are not meant or…
In India, newspapers are a common choice for wrapping and carrying food. However, experts warn that this practice can pose health risks. Dr Aravind Badiger, Technical Director at BDR Pharmaceuticals International, states that while a single meal wrapped in newspaper may not cause illness, repeated exposure to hot, greasy, or moist food on printed paper can be concerning. The danger escalates when the heat and oil from such food items cause substances to migrate from the paper or inks into the food.
In the short term, consuming food wrapped in newspaper can expose individuals to harmful microbes, potentially leading to symptoms like nausea, vomiting, or stomach discomfort. However, the more significant concern lies in long-term exposure to the printing inks, dyes, and chemicals found in newspapers. Dr Manjusha Agarwal, Consultant – Internal Medicine at Gleneagles Hospital Mumbai, warns that prolonged exposure to these substances may place stress on the liver and kidneys, potentially leading to liver dysfunction or impaired kidney function over time.
Experts recommend alternative materials for wrapping and storing food. Dr Badiger emphasizes the importance of 'food-grade' materials, stating that clean-looking paper does not necessarily mean it is safe for direct food contact. Food-safe paper or food packaging paper is considered a better option, as it is specifically designed for food packaging. Baking paper or parchment is also suitable for food contact, particularly for dry foods, sandwiches, and baked items.
Stainless steel boxes and glass containers are reusable options that can hold cooked food safely. Food-grade plastic containers, when created and labeled for food contact and used as directed, are also suitable for food storage and transportation. Food-grade aluminium foil can be used for certain foods, especially to protect against moisture, air, and contamination during short-term storage, but it is not a universal solution for all types of food or storage conditions.
Reusable food-grade silicone bags/containers are another viable alternative, as they are useful for carrying and storing food while reducing reliance on disposable wrapping materials. Dr Agarwal also stresses the importance of hygiene, advising that raw and cooked foods should be segregated, and perishable food should be refrigerated promptly, avoiding prolonged exposure to room temperature.
Additionally, food should not be placed directly on printed or recycled paper; instead, clean containers or food-safe wrappings should be used.
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