The Indian anytime delight and after dinner digestive, the Paan, can be a terrific source of Salmonella.

A study by researchers at the National Salmonella Centre at the Indian Veterinary Research Institute in Uttar Pradesh’s Izatnagar, found salmonella in Paan as well as betel leaves.

Sandeep Budhiraja, head of the department of internal medicine said,

"It is not surprising if it is found in Paan, as the shopkeepers keep the betel leaves soaked for long hours in water that may be infected."

Rajan Gupta, MD pathology, Indraprastha Apollo Hospitals, said,

"This disease is not acquired because of lack of personal hygiene but because of contamination via food or water. In India, when people go out to eat in a restaurant they drink mineral water but they never think of cleanliness when it comes to Paan.

"If everybody makes sure that what they eat is prepared in a clean place with pure hands and water then it can be easily avoided. It is best to make a Paan at home."