Hot food in plastic packets: Is it safe? Vande Bharat passenger raises concern

In a post shared on X on February 18 by user @bansalavani, the passenger is seen questioning onboard staff about the reheating process.

When asked whether the food was microwaved inside the plastic packet, a staff member reportedly acknowledged that the packaging did not authorise microwave use but confirmed that the meals were warmed while still sealed.

The passenger noted that the packet contained no heat-safety or microwave instructions and only included storage details, raising concerns about potential health risks if food was reheated in unsuitable plastic.

IRCTC responds

Responding to the viral video, the IRCTC apologised and sought details from the passenger.

“Ma'am, our sincere apology for the inconvenience. Please DM your PNR and mobile number to enable us to address this,” IRCTC said in a reply on X.

Social media reactions

Several users backed the passenger’s concerns, with some alleging wider issues in onboard catering quality and compliance.

One user claimed food items often differ from the official menu in flagship trains, calling it a “bigger scam”. Another criticised IRCTC for allegedly engaging low-quality vendors and demanded branded, hygienic meal options.

Others debated the plastic issue itself. While some noted that heating food in plastic is generally discouraged, one user argued that unless a packet explicitly states “do not heat”, the practice is not technically prohibited, though not recommended.

Health implications of reheating food in plastic

Consultant nutritionist Rupali Datta warned that reheating food in plastic containers that are not microwave-safe can increase the risk of chemicals such as phthalates and bisphenols leaching into food, NDTV reported.

“These compounds are known endocrine disruptors, and exposure becomes more likely when plastic is heated,” Datta explained.

She added that while microwave reheating itself is safe, food should ideally be transferred to glass or ceramic containers.

Avoiding repeated heating of food in unsuitable plastic, she noted, is a simple way to reduce long-term chemical exposure.