Picture exotic ready-to-eat food and beverages sold by vendors and people flocking around in excitement. Street food is usually prepared on the spot when a customer makes an order. It is often designed for immediate consumption. Here are some features of street food.
A wide range of food
As a result of globalisation and cultural exchange, we now find it easy to discover new tastes, unique to different countries and cultures which we have not enjoyed before. Sumptuous delicacies available here in Sri Lanka attract tourists in large numbers. Both local and foreign travellers are fond of taking a stroll through streets in search of delightful street food, owing to the rich variety of cuisine found in street food stalls.
Also, there are plenty of options for vegans and non-vegans as well. Sri Lankan pickles (achcharu) and hoppers have been added to a list of 50 must-try, much-loved street foods and beverages in Asia by CNN. However, culinary authenticity differs from region to region; what we cherish down south in Sri Lanka varies from what is on offer in Jaffna, the northern part of the country.
The vibe created by street food
Food is not always about satisfying hunger. It is capable of changing our moods too. The atmosphere prevalent in streets where food stalls are prevalent is as cheerful as a carnival. The soft music played by musical bands or musicians in and around food outlets is soothing and relaxing. The lights glimmering above the streets invite the passersby to enjoy meals even if they had no plans of doing so. The flower pots and plants kept at the entrance of food stalls add beauty. Moreover, wandering between street food stalls is a wonderful way to make new friends and engage with diverse communities.
Not a novel phenomenon
The history of street food dates back to ancient Greece. It is recorded that the most popular meal at that time was fried fish among other street foods. Street food existed in ancient Rome as well. However, the first country that legalised street food and established standards was Turkey. The concept of street food has now moved to all parts of the world. It has become an international phenomenon.
There is a growing demand for street food here in Sri Lanka. While people in urban areas turn to street food to save time during busy schedules, those who reside in villages make sure to enjoy street food when they come to the cities. Street food can be accessed easily for relatively low prices.
Food hygiene and waste accumulation
Even though the demand for street food is high in general, some people find it appalling and show no interest in enjoying street food. They are of the opinion that food safety is not assured when it is prepared and sold on the streets. For instance, contamination of food is common owing to improper handling, production, and storage, and this can lead to food-borne diseases.
Therefore, maintaining hygienic practices becomes a must to attract more consumers. Apart from that, waste accumulation at street food stalls and congestion of wastewater drains are other concerns that should be taken into consideration. Certain countries have banned street food because of its potential health hazard. However, street food can be sustained if the quality is maintained. Perhaps there need to be more regulations. Street food contributes to the local economy so doing away with it might not be the best idea.
PHOTO © TRAVEL EARTH