No paper-wrapped snacks: Food safety watchdog's fresh warning to Mumbai vendors

FSSAI has renewed its warning against using newspapers to wrap, serve or store food after a Mumbai inspection. It said ink chemicals, heavy metals and unhygienic handling can put consumers at risk.

In Short

• Western Region officials and BMC jointly inspected the vendor after discovery
• Printing ink can transfer lead and other heavy metals into food
• Papers handled during printing and transit may carry dirt and pathogens

Street food lovers may soon notice a change in how their favourite snacks are served. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) has reiterated that newspapers cannot be used for packing, wrapping or serving food items, citing serious health risks associated with printing ink and unhygienic handling.

The fresh directive comes after authorities took note of a recent incident in Mumbai where a popular vada pav vendor was allegedly using newspapers to wrap and serve food. Following the discovery, officials from FSSAI's Western Region and the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) carried out a joint inspection and initiated action.

Concerned that similar practices may be widespread, FSSAI has directed all food business operators to immediately stop using newspapers or similar printed materials for any food-related purpose. The order applies to street food vendors, restaurants, cloud kitchens, caterers, quick-service restaurants (QSRs), food stalls, mobile food vendors and small retailers.

According to FSSAI, newspaper ink contains several chemicals, pigments, binders and colourants that may pose health risks if they come into contact with food. The authority warned that printing inks can contain lead and other heavy metals, which may leach into food and cause long-term health complications. In addition, newspapers are often exposed to dust, dirt and unsanitary conditions during printing, transportation and distribution, making them potential carriers of harmful pathogens.

The food regulator pointed out that the use of newspapers for storing, wrapping or serving food is already prohibited under the Food Safety and Standards (Packaging) Regulations, 2018. The authority had also issued an advisory on the matter in the past.

FSSAI clarified that newspapers should not be used even for absorbing excess oil from fried items such as samosas, pakoras and vada pav, nor for covering or storing prepared food.

The regulator has urged food businesses to use only approved food-grade packaging materials to ensure consumer safety. It has also appealed to consumers to remain vigilant and avoid purchasing food served in newspapers.

FSSAI said it is working with state authorities to enforce food safety regulations and promote safer, sustainable packaging practices across the food and beverage sector, with the aim of protecting public health and strengthening food safety awareness.

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