Vada pav is one of the most iconic street foods in Mumbai. Consisting of a potato vada sandwiched inside two soft bread buns, this snack is often served wrapped in old newspapers. But this habit might soon change. FSSAI, along with local food safety officials, has now directed vendors to stop serving vada pav and other street food snacks wrapped in newspapers, citing serious health risks.
No Newspaper Packaging For Vada Pav In Mumbai
According to News18, a popular vada pav vendor was allegedly using newspapers to wrap and serve this snack to foodies in the city. Following this, officials from FSSAI and the Brihanmumbai Municipal Corporation (BMC) carried out inspections at several eateries, street food stalls, and vada pav vendors in Mumbai.
The drive aims to ensure compliance with food safety regulations in the city. This means that vendors cannot use newspapers, magazines, or any kind of printed material to package, wrap, or serve food. Eating food wrapped in newspapers can be risky, as chemicals from printing ink and dyes can transfer from paper to food. According to experts, these substances contain harmful compounds that can contaminate hot and oily food items.
Also Read: Mumbai’s Ashok Vada Pav Ranks 25th In TasteAtlas’ World’s Most Iconic Sandwiches List
Vendors Advised To Use Food-Grade Paper
According to News18, during the inspections, the authorities visited several eateries. Apart from directing them not to use newspapers, they also educated vendors about approved alternatives for food packaging. This included food-grade paper, butter paper, and other safe packaging materials.
This move has drawn a lot of attention because newspaper wrapping has been used by Mumbai street food vendors for many years. This practice is most common among those selling vada pav, bhajiya, and other snacks due to their low cost and easy availability.
Food safety officials stressed that this tradition cannot continue as it is risky for public health. The drive is expected to continue in the coming weeks. Repeated violations by street food vendors in Mumbai could attract penalties under food safety laws.
What do you think of this? Have you ever received a vada pav wrapped in a newspaper?
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro/ Vm2002 and Wikimedia Commons/ Pramodkumartk
For more such snackable content, interesting discoveries and the latest updates on food, travel and experiences in your city, download the Curly Tales App. Download HERE.FAQs
Which is the most famous street food snack of Mumbai?
Vada pav is one of the most famous street food snacks in Mumbai.