Food wrapped in newspaper is likely to get contaminated with

Food wrapped in newspaper is highly susceptible to contamination by lead, a toxic heavy metal found in printing inks. The ink used for newspaper printing contains various bioactive materials and chemicals, including lead, cadmium, and aromatic hydrocarbons, which can easily migrate into food items, especially those that are hot, oily, or moist. When warm food is placed on newsprint, the ink can melt or leach, exposing the consumer to health risks such as lead poisoning, digestive issues, and even cancer. Lead is particularly dangerous as it is difficult for the human body to eliminate, leading to bioaccumulation in tissues and potential neurophysiological dysfunction [c1]. Consequently, food safety authorities like the FSSAI have prohibited the use of newspapers for wrapping or storing food to prevent chemical and microbiological contamination.

Sources

1. [1] https://fssai.gov.in/upload/media/FSSAI_News_Wrapping_ETimes_16_05_2019.pdf
2. [2] Environment, Shankar IAS Acedemy .(ed 10th) > Chapter 5: Environmental Pollution > 5.15.6. Trigger Effect of Acid Rain on Pollutants: > p. 105