Stay Away From These 7 Unhygienic Street Foods in Monsoon to Avoid Health Risks
June 15, 2025, 10:00 AM IST | 3 min read
Monsoon brings relief from the scorching heat but also increases the risk of food contamination due to high humidity and unhygienic conditions. Street food lovers must be extra cautious, as certain popular snacks can harbor harmful bacteria, leading to severe health issues. Here are 7 unhygienic street foods to avoid during monsoon to stay safe from infections and food poisoning.
1. Cut Fruits from Roadside Vendors
Exposed to flies and damp air, cut fruits quickly become a breeding ground for bacteria. Vendors often leave them uncovered, accelerating spoilage.
Health Risks: Typhoid, diarrhea, stomach infections.
2. Golgappa / Pani Puri / Puchka
The flavored water in golgappas is frequently made with unfiltered or stagnant water, and vendors may reuse it without proper hygiene.
Health Risks: Cholera, jaundice, dysentery.
3. Chaats (Bhel Puri, Dahi Puri, Sev Puri)
Chaats contain raw ingredients like onions, tomatoes, and chutneys, which easily get contaminated in damp weather.
Health Risks: Food poisoning, stomach cramps, indigestion.
4. Pakoras / Bhajiyas from Roadside Stalls
While deep-fried, many vendors reuse old oil, which turns toxic when reheated. Monsoon humidity also makes the oil rancid faster.
Health Risks: Acidity, inflammation, long-term heart problems.
5. Ice Gola / Chuski / Street Kulfi
These icy treats are often made with unhygienic ice and artificial syrups containing harmful chemicals.
Health Risks: Sore throat, tonsillitis, typhoid.
6. Samosas and Kachoris
The potato and lentil fillings spoil quickly in humid weather, and vendors may not refrigerate leftovers properly.
Health Risks: E. coli, salmonella infections.
7. Street Chowmein / Noodles
Cooked in open, unhygienic conditions with stale sauces and dirty water, street noodles are a major health hazard.
Health Risks: Gastroenteritis, food poisoning, bloating.
How to Stay Safe?
- Opt for freshly cooked, covered foods.
- Avoid raw or pre-cut ingredients.
- Drink only boiled or purified water.
Monsoon cravings are hard to resist, but prioritizing health over taste can save you from severe illnesses. Stick to hygienic, home-cooked meals this rainy season!
Disclaimer:Â The information provided in this article is for general awareness and educational purposes only. It is not intended as medical advice. Always consult a healthcare professional for personalized guidance regarding food safety, infections, or any health-related concerns. Individual susceptibility to foodborne illnesses may vary. Consume street food at your own discretion during monsoon.
