Expert

Is brinjal safe to eat in monsoon? Read ahead to know from a Delhi-based dietitian on why brinjal and other vegetables like cauliflower, spinach, and mushrooms are riskier during the rainy season.

Rakshita Mehra, Clinical Dietitian and Nutritionist, Delhi, explains that brinjal absorbs and holds water during the monsoon season. Such retained water provides a fertile ground for spores of fungi and bacteria. Therefore, brinjal gets more chances to harbour pathogenic germs on rainy days, leading to food poisoning and stomach infection.

But brinjal is not completely safe to consume. Here's the way you can have it safely:

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Besides brinjal, a few other foods should ideally be avoided or treated with special caution during the rainy season:

The monsoon period is famous for an increase in waterborne and foodborne diseases. A study that has been published in the International Journal of Food Microbiology points out that high humidity and temperature during the rainy season greatly increase the bacteria and fungi on fresh fruits and vegetables. The study suggests proper washing, storage, and high-temperature cooking to minimise infection risks.

• Keep food in tight containers to avoid moisture and contamination.
• Purchase fresh fruits and vegetables in small lots to minimise spoilage.

Conclusion

Brinjal is not totally off-limits during the rainy season, but it has to be handled with a little extra care. Check for freshness always, ensure hygiene, and cook well. The same applies to other high-risk foods. By taking these easy precautions, you can indulge in the season's flavour without fear of falling ill.