Omar Khalid
Plastic is a cheap and convenient material that has become ubiquitous in our daily lives. However, it is important to be aware of the potential health risks associated with its use, particularly when it comes to food and drinks. Some experts warn that plastics can leach harmful chemicals into their contents, especially when exposed to heat. This process is known as \chemical leaching\ and can occur in commonly used items such as water bottles, baby bottles, and food containers. While the industry maintains that plastic products are safe, studies have found increased levels of toxic substances, such as antimony and bisphenol A (BPA), in bottled water exposed to high temperatures. To minimize the potential risks, it is recommended to avoid heating plastics, even those labeled \microwave-safe,\ and to choose alternative materials like glass or stainless steel for food and drink storage.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Effect of temperature on leaching | Heat accelerates leaching, but leaching can occur at cold temperatures too |
| Effect of time on leaching | As time increases, the chemical bonds in the plastic break down more and increase the likelihood of leaching |
| Effect of sunlight on leaching | Sunlight can cause leaching |
| Effect of damage on leaching | Scratches and damage can increase leaching |
| Effect of type of plastic on leaching | Polystyrene and polycarbonate plastics can leach chemicals |
| Effect of type of liquid on leaching | Fatty and acidic liquids can absorb harmful chemicals more easily |
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What You'll Learn
Heat accelerates leaching
Heat accelerates the leaching of chemicals from plastic into food or drinks. As the temperature rises, the chemical bonds in the plastic break down, and chemicals are more likely to leach. This is similar to how heat extracts mint-tasting molecules from mint leaves in tea, and the process occurs faster in hot tea than in cold tea.
A 2014 study analyzed 16 brands of bottled water sold in China that were kept at 158 degrees Fahrenheit for four weeks and found increased levels of antimony and bisphenol A (BPA). BPA is a chemical in certain plastics that can mimic estrogen and has been under scrutiny for years. Similarly, a 2016 study found high levels of antimony in bottled water sold in Mexico when tested under conditions exceeding 150 degrees Fahrenheit.
The industry disagrees with the assertion that heat causes chemicals to leach from plastic, stating that bottled water containers are safe under various conditions. However, experts recommend avoiding heating plastic, even if labeled "microwave-safe," as it can accelerate leaching. It is advisable to allow hot foods to cool before placing them in plastic containers and to avoid storing fatty or acidic foods in plastic, as these foods can absorb harmful chemicals more easily.
To reduce exposure to potentially harmful chemicals, it is essential to minimize the use of plastic, especially when storing or consuming food and drinks. Alternatives such as glass, stainless steel, or lead-free ceramic containers are safer options that protect health and the environment.
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Harmful chemicals in plastics
While many chemicals added to plastics are useful and safe, some are harmful and can leach into the contents of the container, especially when exposed to heat or sunlight. These chemicals are added to improve the performance of the plastics, making them more flexible, heat-resistant, or coloured. However, some of these chemicals do not easily break down and can persist in the environment, accumulate to high levels, or have toxic effects.
One well-known harmful chemical in plastics is bisphenol-A (BPA), which has been linked to certain negative health conditions. Due to this, many consumers now seek out BPA-free products. However, one biological chemistry professor has warned that 'BPA-free' does not necessarily mean that a product is safe, as it may contain chemically similar substances that are less researched and could be equally harmful.
The Australian Government has established the Industrial Chemicals Environmental Management Standard (IChEMS) to help manage the environmental risks of chemicals in plastics. This standard aims to inform environmentally sound product choices and contribute to global efforts to phase out harmful chemicals. To find out if a plastic product contains high-concern chemicals, consumers can request this information from the manufacturer or retailer.
To reduce exposure to harmful chemicals in plastics, it is recommended to limit the use of plastic containers, especially for storing food and drinks. Glass or silicone alternatives are suggested. It is also advised to avoid heating plastics, as this can increase the amount of microplastic shedding and chemical leaching.
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Neurotoxins and carcinogens
Plastic is everywhere, from water bottles and food containers to toys and vehicles. It is convenient, cheap, and nearly impossible to avoid. However, many plastics contain harmful chemicals that can leach into your food and drinks, increasing your exposure to potential neurotoxins and carcinogens.
One of the most common neurotoxins and carcinogens found in plastics is styrene, which is the primary component of polystyrene, commonly known as Styrofoam. Styrene has been classified as a possible human carcinogen by the U.S. National Toxicology Program, the EPA, and the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC). Styrene can leach into food and drinks that are acidic, warm, alcoholic, or oily, and it can also be released into the environment after exposure to rain and other weather conditions.
Other harmful chemicals found in plastics include BPA and Phthalates, which are known to have negative effects on the body. BPA, for example, is a weak synthetic estrogen that can leach into food and disrupt hormone balance. Several studies have linked exposure to BPA to an increased risk of various health issues, including cardiovascular disease, miscarriages, decreased birth weight, cancer, reproductive and sexual dysfunctions, altered immune system activity, metabolic problems, and diabetes in adults, as well as cognitive and behavioral development issues in children.
To reduce your exposure to these potential neurotoxins and carcinogens, it is recommended to avoid heating plastics in the microwave, as heat accelerates leaching. It is also advisable to allow hot foods to cool before placing them in plastic containers and to avoid storing fatty or acidic foods in plastic, as these can absorb harmful chemicals more easily. Additionally, choosing foods with minimal packaging and opting for safer alternatives like glass, stainless steel, or lead-free ceramic storage containers can help minimize your exposure to these harmful substances.
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Safer alternatives to plastics
Plastic is a versatile material that has become ubiquitous in our lives, from appliances and computers to food packaging and clothing. However, the convenience and durability of plastic come at a cost: many plastics contain harmful chemicals that can leach into our food and drinks, potentially impacting our health.
So, what are some safer alternatives to plastics? Here are some suggestions:
Glass
Glass is inert, inexpensive, and recyclable. It can be used for food and beverage storage, and many food items, such as jams, honey, pickles, and nut butters, already come packaged in glass jars. These jars can be upcycled for food storage, reducing waste and providing a no-cost alternative to plastic packaging.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is a tough and easy-to-clean alternative to plastic. It can be used for reusable food and beverage storage, replacing single-use cups, kitchen storage, and lunch boxes. While it is not biodegradable, it is durable and long-lasting, reducing the need for frequent replacement.
Natural Cloth
Natural materials such as organic cotton, wool, hemp, or bamboo can be used instead of plastic bags. These sustainable options won't shed plastic fibers when washed, reducing the amount of microplastic pollution.
Wood
Wood from sustainably managed forests can be used to create lightweight, durable, and compostable alternatives to plastic. It can be used for household items like cleaning brushes, kitchen utensils, cutting boards, tableware, and drinking straws.
Ceramics
Pottery and fired ceramics provide a stable and waterproof alternative to plastic. They are suitable for food storage and tableware and offer a more natural and eco-friendly option. Look for non-toxic glazes to ensure the safety of these products.
Bioplastics
Bioplastics are made from natural substances instead of petroleum and are designed to be biodegradable or compostable. However, it's important to note that most bioplastics require commercial composting facilities, which may not be accessible to everyone. Additionally, the safety of the chemicals in bioplastics and their potential impact on health require further investigation.
While it may be challenging to eliminate plastic completely from our lives, these alternatives offer safer and more environmentally friendly options. By making conscious choices and supporting sustainable products, we can reduce our reliance on plastic and create a healthier future for ourselves and the planet.
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Plastic shedding and leaching
Chemical leaching is accelerated by heat. A 2014 study found that water in plastic bottles kept at 158°F (70°C) for four weeks had increased levels of the toxic substance antimony and bisphenol A (BPA). Another study from 2016 found high levels of antimony in bottled water sold in Mexico, which was stored under similar conditions. Heat and time break down the chemical bonds in plastic, allowing chemicals to leach into the contents. This is why it is recommended to avoid microwaving plastic, even if labelled "microwave-safe", and to avoid storing hot foods or fatty/acidic foods in plastic containers.
However, plastic shedding and leaching can occur even at cold temperatures. A general rule is that liquids are more exposed to plastic leaching due to material fatigue from the sun, heat, or cold. Plastic water bottles left in hot cars or other warm environments for extended periods may develop an unusual taste due to chemical leaching. Therefore, it is recommended to keep water bottles in a bag or covered when not in use and not expose them to bright sunlight for long periods.
To reduce exposure to plastic shedding and leaching, it is advisable to choose glass, stainless steel, or lead-free ceramic storage containers and kitchen utensils made from wood, bamboo, or stainless steel. These materials are considered safer than even "BPA-free" plastics, which may contain poorly-tested chemical additives. It is also recommended to avoid plastic toys, which may contain toxic chemical contaminants, and opt for alternatives made from natural materials such as unpainted wood, cloth, or paper.
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Frequently asked questions
No, plastics are not safe to use for storing and consuming cold drinks. Many plastics contain harmful chemicals that can leach into your drinks, increasing exposure to substances linked to health concerns.
There are two routes: chemical leaching and microplastic shedding. In chemical leaching, chemicals migrate from the plastic to the drink. In microplastic shedding, tiny fragments of plastic break off into the drink without any heating or cooling, but this process is accelerated when heated.
Glass, stainless steel, or lead-free ceramic containers are safer alternatives to plastic. For kitchen utensils, wood, bamboo, or stainless steel are recommended.
A 2014 study found increased levels of the toxic substance antimony and bisphenol A (BPA) in bottled water sold in China that was kept at 158 degrees Fahrenheit for four weeks. Another example is polystyrene, found in styrofoam food trays and disposable cups, which can leach styrene, a neurotoxin and possible carcinogen.
The industry disagrees, stating that plastic bottled water containers are safe under a variety of conditions. However, some experts warn against drinking water from hot plastic bottles, as heat can facilitate the leaching of chemicals.
