Is Street Food Really Unsafe During Monsoon? Here's What A Healthcare Expert Wants You To Know

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The arrival of the monsoon is one of the most awaited seasons in India. The first showers bring welcome relief from the scorching summer heat, lush green landscapes and, for many, an irresistible craving for hot pakoras, roasted corn, chaat and other favourite street-side treats. Rainy evenings and street food have become a cherished combination across the country.

But the same season that fuels these cravings also brings a higher risk of foodborne illnesses. Every year, health experts caution people to be more mindful of what and where they eat during the rains. While street food often comes under scrutiny, experts say the issue isn't as straightforward as avoiding roadside snacks altogether.

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According to Mr Jeevan Kasara, Chairman, Steris Healthcare, the real concern lies in how food is prepared and handled.

"We experience an upsurge in incidents of typhoid, hepatitis A, cholera, and acute gastroenteritis every monsoon, and in most cases, street food is to blame. However, the truth is much more complicated than simply issuing a general warning about street food, which in itself is not the problem but rather poor handling of food."

Why Does Monsoon Increase The Risk Of Foodborne Diseases?

The rainy season creates conditions that allow harmful bacteria and viruses to thrive. Increased humidity, fluctuating temperatures and water contamination can all contribute to food becoming unsafe much faster than usual.

Explaining why these risks rise during the season, Mr Kasara says:

"In the monsoons, there is a sharp increase in such problems due to various reasons. For example, floods may render water sources in the area contaminated, and the vendors use such contaminated water for cleaning the ingredients, vessels, and their hands."

Contaminated water can introduce disease-causing microorganisms into food, increasing the risk of illnesses such as typhoid, hepatitis A, cholera and acute gastroenteritis.

Humidity Makes Food Spoil Faster

Apart from water contamination, the weather itself plays a major role. Warm and humid conditions encourage bacteria to multiply rapidly, particularly in food that is left uncovered or stored at room temperature.

Mr Kasara points out:

"High humidity levels make food spoil very quickly as any food kept exposed to bacteria for thirty minutes becomes unsafe to consume.That's sound advice, not frightening advice."

This is one reason why freshly prepared food is generally considered a safer choice than items that have been sitting out for long periods.

Should You Stop Eating Street Food During Monsoon?

Not necessarily. Rather than avoiding street food altogether, experts recommend making informed choices about where and what you eat. Hygiene standards, food handling practices and the freshness of the food matter far more than whether it is sold on the street or in a restaurant.

How To Enjoy Street Food More Safely During The Rainy Season

Sharing simple precautions that can help reduce the risk of infection, Mr Kasara advises:

"Ensure that you have eaten food items which are fresh and warm as germs die due to heat."

He also recommends avoiding certain foods if there are concerns about hygiene or water quality.

"Do not eat any kind of salad, fruits, or beverages like nimbu pani and jaljeera from roadside sellers in case of doubt regarding purity of their water sources."

In addition, he suggests paying attention to the vendor's surroundings before ordering.

"Watch out for signs of cleanliness, food covering, lack of stagnant water, etc."

Vaccination can also provide protection against some preventable infections.

"Ensure that your typhoid and hepatitis A shots are up-to-date.", he adds.

Street Food Isn't The Enemy-Poor Food Handling Is

Street food has long been an integral part of India's culinary identity. From bustling city markets to small-town roadside stalls, these flavours are woven into everyday life and countless memories.

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As Mr Kasara aptly sums it up:

"Street food is an inherent part of Indian culture, that is the trick here. Don't remain naive."

The message isn't to give up your favourite rainy-day snacks. Instead, enjoy them wisely by choosing vendors who maintain good hygiene, serve freshly cooked food and use clean water. A little caution can go a long way in helping you savour the flavours of the season without compromising your health.