Pressure cooker mistake: Doctor says this dangerous habit could be causing more health problems than outside food

A pressure cooker is one of the most frequently used appliances in Indian kitchens, but cleaning the vessel itself may not be enough. One part that often gets overlooked is the rubber gasket fitted inside the cooker lid, which helps maintain the seal needed for pressure cooking.

The gasket comes into regular contact with steam, moisture and food vapours, yet it is easy to leave it in place while washing the rest of the cooker. A recent social media post by homeopathic oncology practitioner Dr Tarang Krishna has drawn attention to this often-missed part of pressure cooker hygiene.

While some of the health claims made in the post are not independently established here, the basic cleaning point is worth considering: the gasket should be removed and cleaned separately as part of routine pressure cooker maintenance.


Read more - Your railway station may soon be better prepared for festival crowds: RPF to track high-footfall events from 2022 & plan manpower before passenger surges

Why pressure cooker gaskets need separate cleaning

The rubber ring sits inside a groove in the cooker lid, meaning its surface is not as exposed as the rest of the appliance. Moisture and food residue can collect around the gasket and its surrounding groove, particularly when the cooker is used frequently.

Because the ring is tucked away, many people simply wash the lid without taking it out.

Dr Tarang Krishna highlighted this habit in his post, saying, “We all wash the cooker but often forget to clean it by removing this rubber ring.”

What happens when moisture and food residue remain

Rubber and silicone seals can retain moisture and traces of food, oil and other residues. If the gasket is repeatedly exposed to these without proper cleaning and drying, unpleasant odours or visible buildup can develop.

Krishna referred to what he described as a clinical report in the Journal of Food Protection and claimed that microbial biofilms could develop on cooker gaskets. He further said that ordinary dishwashing may not remove such buildup.

However, these claims should not be interpreted as evidence that a pressure cooker gasket routinely causes gut inflammation, reduced immunity or recurrence of illness. The specific health claims in the social media post require independent scientific verification.

How to clean a pressure cooker gasket

A simple cleaning routine can help keep the seal hygienic and in good condition.

After the cooker has cooled completely, remove the gasket from the lid and wash it separately with warm water and a suitable dishwashing detergent. Pay attention to the groove in the lid as well, as residue can accumulate there.

Rinse the gasket thoroughly and allow both the gasket and lid to dry completely before putting them back together.

Krishna suggested soaking the gasket in vinegar and baking soda for five minutes, writing, “The solution is simple: after using it again and again, remove the gasket and soak it in vinegar and baking soda for 5 minutes.”

It is worth noting that vinegar and baking soda react with each other, so combining them does not necessarily make them more effective than using an appropriate cleaning method separately. For pressure cooker maintenance, the manufacturer’s cleaning and care instructions should take priority.

When should you replace a pressure cooker gasket?

The gasket is a replaceable component and should not be kept indefinitely. Krishna suggested making it a rule to “change your gasket every 6 months.”

However, replacement intervals can vary depending on the cooker, gasket material and frequency of use. Users should follow the manufacturer’s recommendations and replace the seal sooner if it becomes cracked, hardened, loose, deformed or otherwise damaged.

A worn gasket can affect the pressure cooker’s ability to seal properly, making replacement an important part of routine appliance maintenance.

Pressure cooker hygiene

Cleaning the cooker after every use is essential, but the lid, valve, gasket and other removable components also deserve attention. Removing the rubber seal periodically, cleaning the groove and allowing everything to dry properly can help prevent residue and odour from accumulating.

The key takeaway is simple: when cleaning a pressure cooker, don't forget the part you cannot easily see.

Pressure cooker cleaning tips

• Wash after every use: Clean the cooker body, lid and other removable parts with warm water and dishwashing liquid.
• Remove the rubber gasket: Take the gasket out of the lid groove and wash it separately to remove trapped moisture and food residue.
• Clean the lid groove: Wipe the groove where the gasket sits, as residue can collect in this less-visible area.
• Clean the pressure valve: Check the valve and vent tube regularly and make sure they are free from food particles. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for cleaning.
• Dry everything properly: Allow the gasket, lid and other parts to dry completely before reassembling the cooker.
• Don't use harsh abrasives: Avoid aggressive scrubbing or cleaning products that could damage the gasket or cooker surface.
• Check the gasket regularly: Replace it if it becomes cracked, hardened, loose, stretched or damaged.
• Follow the manufacturer's instructions: Cleaning methods and replacement intervals can differ between pressure cooker models.
• Avoid storing it while damp: Keep the cooker and lid dry to minimise odours and residue buildup.
• Don't forget the handles and exterior: Wipe these areas regularly, particularly around joints and crevices where food splashes may settle.