Mar 26, 2013

Shun those unhygienic food sold on roadside

MYSORE: Many roadside fruits sellers try to make hay while the sun shines, more so if it is summer. Though fruits are ideal for consumption during summer, eating cut-fruits sold under unhygienic conditions means inviting trouble.

Vendors selling cut-fruits, ice-creams and fruit juices near court, schools and colleges, the DC's office and other public places is a common sight. Unmindful of the health complications that these eatables and juices bring in, many people consume them.

Speaking to TOI, health officer Dr Nagaraj D G said that they have issued circulars to all health inspectors to keep a check on the sale of unhygienic food items. "Those not following the rules can be fined. Offenders can also be booked under Food Safety Act," the officer said.

Mysore City Corporation had organized a workshop for street vendors a month ago. At the workshop, the vendors were educated about the extra care that they need to take during summer.

Physician Dr Vaibhavi P S said: "Eating uncovered and unhygienic food sold on roadsides can lead to typhoid, cholera and gastroenteritis. Anyone -- be it grown-ups or children -- can be affected by feeding on cut-fruits kept in the open."

"There is a need to take extra care when it comes to children. They, being young, can't express their fatigue and dehydration. So parents have to supplement them with more fruits and fluids," Dr Vaibhavi added.

Doctors recommend people to avoid eatables sold on roadside. According to them, water and food served outside are not hygienic, and can lead to food poisoning, infections and other serious ailments. "It's not only food, but also the place and the person serving the food need to maintain hygiene," they say.

J Rajeshwari of the department of food and nutrition in Maharani's Science College said: "Intake of more fluid is recommended during summer as hydration level dips. Eating spicy and fried food and junk must be avoided. Consuming light food and greens is good for health," she added.

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