*Idli, dosa batter not quite up to standard in India* Staff Reporter
*CHENNAI: Consumer organisation CONCERT on Wednesday underscored the need for authorities to prescribe quality standards for readymade idli, dosa batter.* *Unless this is done, the batter, which is becoming popular among the households, could prove unhealthy, according to a study conducted by the Centre for Consumer Education, Research, Teaching, Training and Testing (CONCERT).* *Addressing presspersons here on Wednesday, CONCERT director G. Santhanarajan, said 20 samples of batter were taken from shops in 16 localities across the city, including Royapettah, Thiruvanmiyur, West Mambalam, Washermenpet and Thoraipakkam.* *Using the kits of Tamil Nadu Water Supply and Drainage Board, CONCERT tested the samples for the presence of hydrogen sulphide-producing bacteria. “We found that 11 samples, both branded and unbranded, had H2S presence indicating contamination. It is a qualitative, indicator test. When the colour of the sample kept over 24 hours turns black, it means presence of some amount of H2S causing contamination. This may lead to stomach cramps and typhoid,” he said.* *The main reason for such contamination was poor quality water.* *Some of the other factors that lead to such contamination are unhygienic methods of preparation and storage.* -- With best wishes S Chander
