With the onset of summerwater and rising temperatures, juice shops have mushroomed across Chennai, offering a quick, refreshing break fwateror thirsty residents. However, behind the colourful counters and fruity flavours lies a growing concern: the quality of water being used in these roadside juice stalls.

From street corners in T. Nagar and Triplicane to bus stops in Anna Nagar and Saidapet, hundreds of makeshift juice shops operate daily. While many offer seasonal favourites like watermelon, muskmelon, lemon, and sugarcane juices at affordable prices, the source of water used to prepare and clean equipment remains questionable.

“I bought a grape juice near the railway station. It tasted odd and gave me stomach pain the next day,” said Ramya S, a college student from Chromepet. “There’s no way to know if they’re using clean water or even washing the fruits properly.”

Health officials and doctors warn that consuming juices prepared with unfiltered or contaminated water can lead to gastrointestinal infections, food poisoning, and waterborne diseases like typhoid and hepatitis A.

“Many roadside vendors don’t have access to RO or boiled water. They often use borewell or tap water, which may be unsafe,” said Dr. Balasubramaniam, a general physician from Kilpauk. “During peak summer, we see a sharp rise in patients with diarrhoea and vomiting, and in most cases, it’s due to unhygienic street food or drinks.”

Adding to the problem is lack of regulation. While licensed juice shops in malls and commercial complexes are subject to health inspections, many roadside vendors operate informally. Civic officials admit the challenge.

“We are aware of the issue and have started surprise inspections in some areas,” said a Chennai Corporation Health Officer. “Vendors found using contaminated water or operating in unhygienic conditions will face action, including temporary shutdowns.”

Despite the risks, the popularity of street juice shops shows no sign of slowing down. With prices starting as low as ₹20, they remain a preferred choice for many daily commuters and workers.

Experts urge consumers to be cautious. “If you’re drinking juice outside, make sure it’s a clean shop, preferably using mineral water or branded ice,” advised Dr. Kalpana, a public health specialist.