As summer sets in with rising temperatures and severe heatwaves sweeping across the country, it is crucial to exercise caution in our food and lifestyle choices to stay healthy during this period.
One growing concern is the increased consumption of open street food and drinks, driven by fatigue and thirst in the sweltering heat.
Unfortunately, the high temperature accelerates food spoilage and attracts flies and insects, raising the risk of contamination. In particular, bottled cold water and iced lemon juice sold by hawkers are now widely available in every corner of the city.
However, questions remain about the hygiene standards maintained in the handling and storage of the ice used in these beverages. Ice is often stored in sacks or on makeshift wooden tables covered with plastic sheets-conditions far from sanitary.
Furthermore, the increased use of air conditioning during this time, combined with high humidity, fosters the growth of bacteria and viruses, contributing to a rise in waterborne illnesses such as diarrhoea, jaundice and typhoid.
With a little awareness and precaution, many of these health risks can be mitigated. It is advisable to carry a bottle of safe drinking water and an umbrella when venturing outside.
Homemade drinks such as lemon juice, lassi, and yogurt-based beverages are far safer alternatives and help keep the body hydrated.
Chilled water from refrigerators should be avoided,
and vitamin C-rich foods should be consumed in
abundance. Most importantly, open street
food should be completely avoided during
this season.
A few discreet choices can go a long way in preventing disease and maintaining well-being in the scorching summer months.
Zesia Tabassum Zahin
Department of English language, IML
Jagannath University, Dhaka
