Keep water safe and cool in an earthen pot

The age old Indian tradition of storing drinking water in an earthen pot is often questioned by health experts since various cases of stomach infections and digestive disorders from the clay pot water are reported every year, although mostly from the rural and remote areas. Health expert, Neeta Shah tells us that consuming matka water is safe provided necessary precautions are taken.

For generations, earthen pots or matkas have been used to store water and keep it cool. Water stored in matkas or surahis is cooled at about 10⁰C and 14⁰C and is said to have a refreshing flavor. Many find the temperature of the water - not too warm and not too chilled - makes it ideal for drinking.

Your mum may be trying to protect you from falling ill when she suggests drinking water from a matka. Traditionally, it is believed to be gentle on the throat and better than drinking chilled water from the fridge. Plus if you are prone to colds and coughs or sore throats, some believe matka water might be the best option for you.

But, it is vital that the stored water be boiled or filtered first. Bring the required water to a rolling boil for one minute. Allow the water to cool naturally. Once it reaches room temperature, you can store it in a clean matka or surahi. Here are some tips you can remember:

• Keep your matka or surahi clean and germ-free. Earthen pots can retain water and collect scum quickly. It is best to scrub, clean, and dry the matka after each use before refilling it. If you stay in an area where the water is salty, the pot may accumulate a thin white of salt and chemicals. Try adding some chlorine tablets to your water to make the particles settle down.

• If you use a matka, keep it covered at all times to prevent insects, dust and other contaminants from falling into it.
• Use a clean, long-handled ladle to spoon out water from a matka. Dipping a glass or touching the water with your hand may contaminate it.
• Do not forget to filter your water before you store in the matka. Remember, storing tap water (unfiltered) does not ensure fully whether it’s safe to drink or not.
• Some prefer storing water in a surahi (an earthen pot with a tall narrow neck) since it is believed to cool the water more than the wider short-necked matka.

• There are various types of earthen pots available in the market. A small surahi may be easy to handle, whereas a larger matka or ghara may be harder to move around. Many prefer the surahis that are fitted with a little tap on the side and are slightly more expensive(Rs. 100) than the regular dirt cheap(Rs. 40) ghadas. Suit your needs and your comfort.
• Place the pot on a sturdy table near the window. The breeze will help keep the water cool. During the hot months you may want to wrap a clean moist cloth around the matka for quicker cooling. Some believe keeping the ghada away from the light and in total darkness could keep the water way cooler than anything.
• Watch out for any cracks and chips and replace your matka if it leaks. A cracked ghada will not cool the water effectively.