What to avoid eating and drinking in India
Side-step the tap water
Make it your personal mission to avoid the tap water at all costs – it’s only ever going to mean bad news! Employ your best martial art skills to dodge washed salad, side-step ice cubes and duck away from fresh juices (unless they’re made with mineral water), and don’t even think about using the tap water to brush your teeth. If you see the locals drinking water from the tap, don’t follow suit! The water in India contains bacteria which foreign stomachs really can’t handle, so try not to trip up over something you can easily avoid.
Live life on the Veg
From Roti in Rajasthan to Masala in Mumbai, India is a culinary wonderland which rivals anywhere else on the planet. It’s also home to the largest population of vegetarians in the world, so the good news is that the artistry of Indian cooking doesn’t rely on meat! Sticking to a vegetarian diet while in India lowers the risk of contamination, and with meat-free options taking the forefront on every menu (the actual dream for those who are already veggie!) you won’t ever be stuck for choice. If you’re up for the challenge, going vegan for the duration of your Indian travels is an even better way to avoid feeling out of sorts. Under-cooked eggs, cheese and gone off milk can all cause a rumble in the tumble, but you’ll have a harder time avoiding these items on a daily basis.
Ask for “No-spicy”
It’s well known that when it comes to food, Indians like it HOT! Luckily, most restaurants will be aware of differing abilities when it comes to tolerating heat, and you can request for your dish to be “no-spicy” or “little-spicy” to keep those chillis down to a minimum. A lower spice level could be just the ticket to keep your digestive system from going into shock, or an absolute life-saver if you find yourself heading out on an overnight bus!
Be selective when it comes to street food
As tempting as it might look, always tread carefully when it comes to eating at street food vendors. Tasting the local dish can be a great way to get to know the true India, but it’s better to err on the side of caution when it comes to choosing where and what to eat. Stick to vendors that attract a large crowd, give the equipment a once over for cleanliness and make sure that the food is piping hot to ward off any unfriendly bacteria. If there are flies swarming all over the chapati you’re about to chomp, it’s time to rethink your food game!
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