Bite right in the rain: street food safety unwrapped!
When the monsoon showers arrive, so does the craving for spicy samosas, tasty pakoras, and steaming masala chai by the roadside. But is indulging in street food during the monsoon really safe? From age-old advice passed down by nani to viral reels on food hacks, let’s separate myths from the facts and dive into the delicious yet risky world of street food safety in the rainy season.
Fact: Hot oil can kill some bacteria, but not all other harmful contaminants. In monsoon, moisture in the air creates the suitable environment for microbial growth—even in deep fried items. If the oil is reused multiple times (which is common on the Indian streets), it could carry toxins harmful for your health.
What to do: Check if the vendor is frying fresh and using clean oil. Avoid pre-fried items that are reheated and served.
Fact: No, rainwater cannot remain clean when coming in contact with street-borne pollutants or even dripping on food carts. It's often combined with dust and sewage. If the food is kept uncovered or cooked in such surroundings it is a breeding ground for diseases like typhoid, hepatitis A, and cholera, spread by flies, mosquitoes and other harmful insects.
What to do: Prefer to dine in those places where vendors keep their stalls covered, and follow good hygiene practices—yes, they also exist!
Fact: Raw onions, mint, coriander, and chutneys may seem refreshing, but during the rainy season, they’re somewhat risky for your digestive health. These uncooked toppings can easily attract bacteria, especially when stored without refrigeration.
What to do: Opt for those recipes with fully cooked components. Say no to raw garnishing unless you're fully confident in the hygiene standards.
Fact: Chillies might numb your tongue temporarily but they don’t kill bacteria. In fact, extremely spicy food can instantly irritate the digestive tract during the humid monsoon.
What to do: Look for food that's well-cooked, moderately seasoned, and freshly prepared.
Fact: Undoubtedly, popularity means fast turnover, which is good. But it doesn’t necessarily guarantee good hygiene and cleanliness. A busy stall can still serve contaminated food if the ingredients, water, or hands used to prep are not properly cleaned.
What to do: You have already got the skill - observe. Is the cook using gloves? Are they handling money and food together? A few quick checks can protect your health.
Monsoon-related illnesses are no joke, and street food provides an easy entry point for infections. Prevention is always tastier than cure!
Monsoons in India are no doubt magical—everything smells earthy, feels nostalgic, and tastes better. Street food has always been part of that charm, but your health shouldn’t be the price. So go ahead, enjoy the monsoon keeping your safety in mind. Make smart choices and stay away from myths.
