FSSAI Bans Newspapers for Wrapping and Serving Food Across India: What Consumers Need to Know
Food safety regulator cracks down on a common practice, citing health risks from newspaper ink and contamination.
If you’ve ever enjoyed a samosa, vada pav, or pakora wrapped in a newspaper, you may soon notice a change. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has once again taken a strict stand against the use of newspapers for wrapping, storing, or serving food across the country.
The practice has been common for decades, especially among street food vendors and small food businesses. However, FSSAI says newspapers are not safe for direct contact with food. According to the regulator, printing inks used in newspapers may contain harmful chemicals and heavy metals that can transfer to food, particularly when it is hot or oily. Newspapers can also carry dust, dirt, and other contaminants, increasing hygiene concerns.
The fresh warning follows a recent inspection in Mumbai, where authorities found food being packed and served in newspapers. After the inspection, FSSAI directed all food business operators, including street vendors, restaurants, caterers, and cloud kitchens, to immediately stop using newspapers and switch to approved food-grade packaging materials.
The move is aimed at improving food safety standards and protecting consumers from avoidable health risks. For consumers, it serves as a reminder to choose food that is packed and served using safe, food-grade materials.
