Maya Ellison
Plastic wrap, also known as food cling wrap, is a thin, transparent film commonly made from materials such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC), low-density polyethylene (LDPE), or polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC). Its primary purpose is to extend the shelf life of food by protecting it from air, moisture, and contaminants. While some plastic wraps in the past contained chemicals like phthalates or bisphenol A (BPA), modern food-grade cling wrap has improved significantly. Today, most food cling wrap products are free from these chemicals, particularly those labelled as BPA-free or phthalate-free. However, concerns have been raised about the safety of using plastic wrap, especially when it comes into direct contact with food during cooking or heating. To minimize potential risks, it is recommended to avoid using plastic wrap directly on food and to opt for microwave-safe lids or containers instead.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Plastic wrap contains BPA | In the past, plastic wrap contained chemicals like phthalates or bisphenol A (BPA). Modern food-grade cling wrap has improved significantly, and most products are now labelled as BPA-free. |
| Safety concerns | BPA, phthalates, and other chemicals are known as endocrine disruptors, which can affect natural hormone production and have been linked to cancer and reproductive problems. |
| Alternatives | Safer alternatives are used to achieve the desired flexibility and clinginess, such as LDPE and PVDC wraps, which are considered safe for food packaging. |
| Recommendations | It is recommended to avoid using plastic wrap in direct contact with food, especially during cooking or microwaving. Covering food with microwave-safe lids or containers is advised. |
| Product choices | Some companies have transitioned to using safer chemicals in their products, such as Saran Wrap, which removed toxic chemicals at the cost of market share. |
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What You'll Learn
Plastic wrap alternatives
Plastic wrap, also known as cling wrap, is a thin, transparent film commonly made from materials such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC), low-density polyethylene (LDPE), or polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC). These materials are designed to offer flexibility, durability, and the ability to create a tight seal around food items, protecting them from air, moisture, and contaminants. However, plastic wrap is also incredibly wasteful and harmful to the environment, contributing to global warming and the destruction of ecosystems. It can take anywhere from 20 to 500 years for plastic to break down, and even then, it only breaks down into microplastics, which can be ingested by wildlife, leading to injury and death.
Fortunately, there are several alternatives to plastic wrap that are more environmentally friendly and sustainable:
- Beeswax wraps: Beeswax wraps are made from natural ingredients such as beeswax, tree resin, jojoba oil, and cotton. They are washable, reusable, and can be used for up to a year. However, they may not always create an airtight seal and should be avoided in hot temperatures as they can melt.
- Reusable silicone bowl covers: Silicone bowl covers are strong, stretchy, and dishwasher-safe. They can withstand high cooking temperatures and create an airtight seal to keep food fresh.
- Glass jars and containers: Glass is 100% recyclable, environmentally friendly, and does not leach toxic chemicals into food when heated. Wide-mouth jars are particularly useful for storing soups, oatmeal, and salads.
- Cloth bowl covers: Cloth bowl covers, or "shower caps," can be purchased or made at home with cloth and elastic. They are reusable and can be used to cover bowls of food or to wrap individual items such as cheese or cucumbers.
When choosing plastic wrap alternatives, it is important to look for products that are labelled as BPA-free or phthalate-free to ensure they do not contain harmful chemicals. Additionally, it is recommended to avoid using plastic wrap in direct contact with food during cooking, especially in high-temperature scenarios like microwave use. Instead, covering food with microwave-safe lids or containers is advised.
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Health risks of BPA
Bisphenol A (BPA) is a synthetic compound used to harden plastics, prevent bacteria growth in food, and stop cans from rusting. It is found in many everyday products, including baby bottles, water bottles, food storage containers, and the lining of cans. Due to its widespread use, BPA is almost certainly present in your body.
BPA is an endocrine disruptor, which means it interferes with the hormonal systems that support the body's functioning and health. This disruption can lead to various health problems, including reproductive issues, endometriosis, infertility, diabetes, asthma, obesity, and adverse effects on fetal neurodevelopment. Studies have also linked BPA exposure to developmental and behavioural problems in children, such as ADHD, anxiety, depression, and early puberty in girls.
The health risks of BPA are particularly significant during pregnancy and fetal development, when even minor changes in hormone levels can have long-lasting effects on the developing child. Research has shown that exposure to BPA during pregnancy can impair glucose homeostasis and increase the risk of Type 2 diabetes in the offspring. Additionally, BPA has been found to accumulate in several human tissues and organs, potentially impacting metabolism and cancer progression by interacting with certain receptors in the body.
While some companies have removed BPA from their products due to public awareness and pressure, studies have shown that BPA replacement chemicals have been on the rise. Unfortunately, many of these substitutes are just as harmful as the original BPA. To reduce exposure to BPA, individuals are advised to avoid heating food in plastic, limit direct contact with plastic wrap during cooking, and opt for fresh or frozen foods instead of canned goods.
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History of plastic wrap
Plastic wrap, also known as cling film, food wrap, and saran wrap, is a thin plastic film typically used for sealing food items in containers to keep them fresh. It is most commonly made out of PVC (Polyvinylidene Chloride).
Plastic wrap was discovered in 1933 when a lab worker, Ralph Wiley, at Dow Chemical was having trouble washing beakers used in developing a dry-cleaning product. The product was initially developed into a spray to be sprayed onto fighter planes to protect them from salty sea spray. The original plastic wrap that was invented was PVdC (Polyvinylidene Chloride).
In 1943, Ralph Wiley and his boss, John Reilly, completed the final work needed to introduce PVDC, which had been invented in 1939. PVDC monofilaments were also extruded for the first time. The word Saran was formed from a combination of John Reilly's wife's and daughter's names, Sarah and Ann Reilly. In 1949, Dow introduced Saran Wrap, a thin, clingy plastic wrap that was sold in rolls and used primarily for wrapping food. Saran Wrap became a household staple within five years.
In 2004, the "Saran" brand changed to using LDPE (Low-Density Polyethylene) due to environmental concerns with the chloride associated with PVC plastic wrap. LDPE is considered safer for the body, but it does not provide the same cling as PVC plastic wrap. Today, plastic wrap is typically sold on rolls in boxes with a cutting edge, and the trend has been to produce thinner plastic wrap, particularly for household use.
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Safety of plastic wrap in microwaves
Plastic wrap, also known as food cling wrap, is commonly used to cover and store food items. While it offers benefits such as flexibility, durability, and the ability to seal food tightly, concerns have been raised about its safety, especially when used in microwaves.
Historically, some plastic wraps did contain chemicals like phthalates or bisphenol A (BPA), which raised health concerns. In response, manufacturers have significantly improved their products, and most modern food-grade cling wraps are now labelled as BPA-free and phthalate-free. PVC-based plastic wraps, for example, have phased out the use of plasticizers like DEHP due to health concerns and now use safer alternatives. LDPE and PVDC wraps are also considered safe for food packaging as they are less likely to contain harmful additives.
When it comes to microwave use, opinions vary on the safety of plastic wrap. Some sources, including the USDA, state that plastic wrap is safe to use in the microwave as long as it is labelled as microwave-safe. Saran Wrap, for instance, is generally considered safe for microwave use if it is labelled accordingly. However, it is important to follow the manufacturer's instructions, which may include leaving a vent or ensuring the wrap does not come into direct contact with the food. Using non-microwave-safe plastic wrap can cause it to melt or leach chemicals into the food.
To minimise potential risks, it is recommended to avoid using plastic wrap in direct contact with food during cooking, especially in high-temperature scenarios like microwave use. Instead, covering food with microwave-safe lids, containers, or alternatives like wax paper, parchment paper, or paper towels is advised. Additionally, it is always important to read the labels of plastic containers carefully and follow any specific guidelines provided by the manufacturer.
Overall, while modern food-grade cling wraps have improved in terms of chemical composition, it is advisable to use plastic wrap with caution in microwaves. Following safety guidelines and opting for alternative covering methods can help ensure a safer cooking experience.
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Brands of plastic wrap without BPA
Plastic wrap, also known as cling wrap, is a thin, transparent film commonly made from materials such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC), low-density polyethylene (LDPE), or polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC). It is designed to form a tight seal around food items, protecting them from air, moisture, and contaminants, thereby extending their shelf life.
While plastic wrap has been phthalate-free since 2006, concerns about its safety persist due to the presence of other chemicals like BPA and DEHA. BPA, or bisphenol A, is found in some plastic wraps, and while it primarily leaches when heated, it can be harmful if ingested.
To address these concerns, many companies now offer plastic wrap products that are explicitly marketed as BPA-free. Here are some brands that provide plastic wrap without BPA:
- Amazon offers a plastic food wrap that is BPA-free, with an optional slide cutter for convenience. It is designed to fit most standard plates, bowls, and containers, and users generally find it easy to use.
- Glad Press N Seal Multipurpose Sealing Wrap is another option that, according to tests by Good Housekeeping, contains low levels of BPA but does not transfer these chemicals to food.
- Saran Wrap is a well-known brand that has voluntarily removed toxic chemicals from its formula, ensuring its plastic wrap is BPA-free.
When choosing a plastic wrap, it is essential to check the product labels. Reputable brands will typically indicate if their products are free from harmful chemicals like BPA and phthalates. Additionally, opting for eco-friendly alternatives made from biodegradable or compostable materials can be a more sustainable choice.
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Frequently asked questions
Plastic wrap, also known as food cling wrap, is typically made from materials such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC), low-density polyethylene (LDPE), or polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC). While some older plastic wraps contained chemicals like bisphenol A (BPA), modern food-grade plastic wraps have significantly improved. Most plastic wraps today, particularly those labelled as BPA-free, do not contain BPA.
Bisphenol A (BPA) is a chemical that was previously used in the production of certain plastics. It was phased out due to health concerns as it is known to act like hormones in the body and affect natural hormone production.
To avoid BPA in plastic wrap, look for products labelled as "BPA-free". Established brands will often indicate if their products are free from harmful chemicals. Additionally, check the bottom of the plastic wrap packaging for a plastic code. Avoid products with a code of 3 or V, as these may indicate the presence of polyvinyl chloride, which contains BPA.
Yes, there are alternatives to plastic wrap. You can use unbleached parchment paper or aluminium foil to cover your food before wrapping it in plastic wrap. This adds an extra layer of protection and reduces direct contact between the plastic and your food.
