Mysuru City Corporation Bans Newspaper Usage for Food Packaging
The Mysuru City Corporation (MCC) has issued a directive prohibiting restaurants within its jurisdiction from using newspapers to wrap food items. The decision was taken to ensure food safety and promote sustainable practices. Newspaper ink contains harmful substances such as lead and phthalates, which can leach into food and pose potential health risks. Moreover, using newspapers for food packaging creates a breeding ground for bacteria and pests, compromising food quality. MCC Commissioner Lakshmikantha Reddy stated that the use of newspapers for food packaging is unsanitary and poses a threat to public health. The directive requires restaurants to adopt safe and hygienic packaging materials, such as food-grade paper, aluminum foil, or biodegradable containers. Restaurants that violate the directive will face penalties. Inspectors from the MCC Health Department will conduct regular checks to ensure compliance. The ban has been welcomed by health advocates and environmentalists. Dr. H.P. Nagaraj, a renowned epidemiologist, said that the move is a step in the right direction to safeguard public health. “Newspapers are not designed for food contact and contain harmful chemicals that can contaminate food and cause health issues. This ban will prevent these risks,” Dr. Nagaraj said. Environmentalist Rashmi Hedge praised the MCC for promoting sustainable practices. “Using newspapers for food packaging contributes to deforestation and pollutes the environment. This ban will encourage restaurants to adopt eco-friendly alternatives,” Hedge added. The MCC’s directive aligns with the Government of India’s Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) guidelines, which prohibit the use of newspapers for food packaging. Several other Indian cities, including Bengaluru, have implemented similar bans. The ban on newspaper usage for food packaging is part of the MCC’s ongoing efforts to improve food safety and promote public health. The corporation urges restaurant owners to comply with the directive and adopt safe and sustainable packaging practices.Mysuru City Corporation Urges Avoidance of Newspaper Packaging for Food Items
Mysuru City Corporation Urges Avoidance of Newspaper Packaging for Food Items
By Devi Poojari
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June 11, 2024 With the growing incidence of cancer cases, the Mysuru City Corporation (MCC) has appealed to hoteliers, bakeries, and eateries to discontinue the use of newspapers for food packaging. Instead, they are encouraged to opt for food-safe paper such as butter paper. This directive comes despite a previous ban on newspaper packaging imposed by the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI).
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Despite the FSSAI’s prohibition, many vendors and companies continue to use newspapers for packaging. This practice poses a risk to public health due to the potential contamination from ink and other chemicals found in newspapers.
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Restaurants in Mysuru have been instructed to avoid using newspapers for food packaging.
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* Main Image: Wikimedia Commons * Inline Image: Wikimedia CommonsMysuru City Corporation (MCC) has issued a directive to restaurants and food outlets within its jurisdiction to refrain from using newspapers for packaging food. The directive aims to promote hygiene and safety standards and reduce the risk of contamination. MCC Commissioner Shilpa Nag has stated that newspapers are often used to wrap food items, but they may contain harmful substances, including ink, bacteria, and chemicals. These substances can leach into food and pose health risks to consumers. The corporation has instructed restaurants to explore alternative packaging options, such as recyclable paper, aluminum foil, or food-grade plastics. These materials are safer and more hygienic, ensuring the integrity of food items. MCC officials will conduct regular inspections to ensure compliance with the directive. Failure to adhere to the guidelines may result in penalties or fines. The directive has been welcomed by health experts and consumer advocates. They emphasize the importance of food safety and hygiene in preventing foodborne illnesses and ensuring public health. MCC’s initiative is part of its comprehensive efforts to enhance sanitation and safety standards within the city. By eliminating the use of newspapers for food packaging, the corporation aims to protect the health and well-being of its residents.
