A viral video has surfaced showing a cow licking meat from a shawarma set up in Siolim. The outlet was directed to shut down with immediate effect after the premises was found to be in extremely unhygienic condition and operating without a Food and Drugs Administration (FDA license. Unhygienic shawarma preparation can pose serious health risks due to bacterial contamination, potentially leading to foodborne illnesses like salmonella or E. coli infections. Improper handling, storage, improper cooking practices and contaminated mayonnaise are often the culprits. Consuming contaminated shawarma can lead to symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, and stomach cramps. Several deaths have been reported across the country due to consumption of unhygienic shawarma. Many shawarma outlets are seen to be operating by the roadside. The meat being used can get contaminated due to dust pollution and droplets from rainwater splashed by moving vehicles. The FDA needs to keep a strict check on the numerous shawarma outlets operating in the state, especially along the coastal belt. It must be ensured that fresh meat is used daily instead of leftovers being used after prolonged storage.
