Newspaper Food Packaging Poses Health Risks

Kathmandu. Nowadays, newspapers are being used more for packing or wrapping food. In most homes, newspapers are seen to be used instead of foil paper. Although this method seems easy and convenient, packing food in newspapers is not a good thing.

Food and drug administrations of various countries have been stating that wrapping food in newspapers is a risk factor for many diseases. Moreover, wrapping or packing hot food in newspapers is even more dangerous.

Chemicals can leach from the ink used in newspapers into the food. This can specifically cause cancer. Therefore, it is always good to pack food in food-grade materials.

Eating food wrapped in newspapers once or twice does not cause cancer. However, its long-term use can be harmful to health. Especially, wrapping hot or moist items in it is strictly prohibited.

In fact, the ink printed in newspapers can contain various types of chemicals. Hot items can absorb these chemicals, which can cause gradual harm when they enter the body. Some chemicals are believed to increase the risk of cancer when exposed to high amounts for a long time.

When does the risk increase?

• When packing hot food in newspapers.
• When keeping spicy food around newspapers.
• When reusing the same newspaper repeatedly.
•  When using discarded newspapers.

What problems can occur?

• Stomach upset.
• Food poisoning can occur.
• Digestive problems can occur.
• Harmful chemicals can accumulate in the body.
• Long-term effects on the liver and kidneys can occur.

What is the correct way to pack food?

You can use food-grade butter paper, food-grade paper bags, aluminum foil, or steel or food-grade plastic containers to pack food. These methods are both healthy and economical. 

Disclaimer: This content, along with advice, provides general information only. Always consult an expert or your doctor for more information.