Is Eating Gol Gappay in Summer Harmful? Health Experts Raise Concerns After Food Poisoning Incident

Mumbai: Gol gappay, a popular street snack enjoyed for its tangy and spicy flavor, can instantly lift the mood of food lovers. However, in a recent incident in Jharkhand, India, the snack turned into a health hazard for several villagers.
According to Indian media reports, multiple people fell ill after consuming gol gappay from a roadside stall in Giridih district. Around 18 individuals were hospitalized, and tragically, a 7-year-old child reportedly lost his life.
The incident has raised serious concerns about food safety during the summer season.
Health experts say that while gol gappay may appear to be a simple snack, they can become dangerous if the ingredients used are not fresh and hygienic. In particular, the water used in the dish can pose serious health risks if it is not clean or properly filtered, as harmful bacteria can grow rapidly in hot weather.
Experts further explained that boiled potatoes and chickpeas used in gol gappay can also spoil quickly if left unrefrigerated in high temperatures, making them unsafe for consumption.
They also highlighted the importance of hygiene standards at street food stalls, questioning how strictly safety practices are followed by vendors.
Medical professionals advised that while it is not necessary to completely avoid street food, caution is essential. Consumers should prefer stalls where food is prepared in front of them, ingredients are properly covered, and cleanliness is visibly maintained.