Sahil Manzoor Bhatti
The Almighty has blessed us with countless gifts—delicious food, breathtaking landscapes, changing seasons, and joyous festivals. Every aspect of life is a reflection of divine generosity. Alhamdulillah!
Every living being originates from a tiny yet powerful unit called a cell. Cells combine to form tissues, which then create organs like the heart, liver, and kidneys. These organs work together to build complex systems, such as the digestive, nervous, and skeletal systems, which ultimately form a complete human body. Unlike machines, our bodies are more sophisticated and resilient, yet they demand proper care and nourishment to function optimally.
Our daily eating habits shape our body and overall health. Nutritious food strengthens our immunity, while unhealthy eating habits can lead to severe health problems, making us dependent on doctors and medications. It is not just our stomachs that suffer from bad dietary choices—what we eat circulates throughout our bodies via the bloodstream, impacting every organ.
The phrase “Health is wealth” holds deep meaning for those who follow good dietary habits. A balanced diet plays a crucial role in overall well-being. But what exactly is a balanced diet? An adequate amount of nutrients is essential for maintaining health. Our bodies require vitamins, minerals, fiber, proteins, fats, and carbohydrates in the right proportions. Consuming any of these nutrients in excess can lead to health issues like obesity, fatty liver, or uric acid problems. Therefore, moderation is key.
Fruits and vegetables play a vital role in keeping our bodies healthy and protecting us from serious illnesses like obesity and digestive disorders. Many fruits and vegetables are rich in fiber, which aids digestion and prevents constipation. Examples of nutrient-rich vegetables include spinach, carrots, radishes, onions, and gourds. Some of the best fruits for overall health are apples, oranges, papayas, bananas, grapes, kiwis, and melons. Despite the availability of healthy food, many young people suffer from stomachaches, weak bones, and digestive problems like Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS).
IBS is increasingly common among young people and is often mistaken for a severe illness. Some major causes include anxiety and stress, unhygienic and contaminated food, frequent consumption of street food, skipping meals or irregular eating patterns, and excessive tea, coffee, and smoking. The good news is that IBS is treatable. Those experiencing symptoms should consult a gastroenterologist and avoid foods that trigger allergic reactions.
Recently, an alarming incident in the Hazratbal area highlighted the risks of street food—rodents were found inside an oil tin used by a vendor. This raises a serious question: Is street food really worth the risk? Most people agree that street food is not the healthiest choice, yet they continue to consume it. While taste and affordability make it attractive, the risk of foodborne illnesses cannot be ignored.
On the other hand, street food is a source of livelihood for thousands of people. Many vendors have been engaged in this trade for generations. It is a crucial part of our economy, and shutting down street food businesses is not a feasible solution. Instead, efforts should be made to improve hygiene standards. If prepared and served hygienically, street food can be both safe and profitable. Vendors should set up stalls away from busy roads to avoid contamination from vehicle emissions and dust. They must wear clean clothes, maintain trimmed nails, and practice proper handwashing. Food should be stored in covered containers to prevent exposure to dust and insects.
Authorities should enforce strict hygiene standards and take action against vendors who neglect them. Vendors should also be provided with safe food-handling gadgets to maintain quality and prolong shelf life. Banning street food is not a practical solution, as it would increase unemployment. Instead, the government and relevant departments should train vendors on food safety. Proper training can help them serve hygienic food while maintaining their business.
Barbecue stalls, for example, are immensely popular and provide employment to many. With proper training, vendors can ensure they offer safe and delicious food without compromising public health. While street food is an integral part of our culture and economy, it must be made safer. Consumers should be cautious about their eating habits, and vendors should take responsibility for maintaining hygiene. By working together—vendors, consumers, and the government—we can ensure that street food remains a delightful yet safe experience.
Sahil Manzoor Bhatti
