The Impact Of Sunlight On Container Plastic Wear

Plastic containers are used for a variety of purposes, from storing food to holding drinks. They are often labelled as 'safe' for the microwave and dishwasher, but experts warn that heat and plastic don't mix well. Heat can break the chemical bonds in plastic, which may increase the rate of chemical migration from the container into its contents. This can even happen with water bottles left in the sun. Plastic containers can also be useful for keeping perishables and dry goods safe from the elements, as they do not degrade or decay like other materials.

Plastic containers are safe to use in the microwave and dishwasher, but heat can break chemical bonds in plastic, increasing the rate of chemical migration into food

Plastic containers are generally safe to use in the microwave and dishwasher. However, heat can break chemical bonds in plastic, increasing the rate of chemical migration into food. This means that exposure to high temperatures can cause chemicals from the container to leach into the food or drink inside. This has been documented even in water bottles left in the sun.

While plastic containers can be convenient and effective for storing food and keeping it fresh, it is important to be cautious when exposing them to high temperatures. This includes not only microwaving or dishwashing but also leaving plastic containers in hot environments, such as a car on a sunny day.

It is worth noting that the FDA's deference to manufacturers on "conditions of use" means that some containers, such as those used for deli and restaurant takeout, might not be built for repeated use and washing. Therefore, it is advisable to follow the instructions provided with the container and exercise caution when using plastic containers in high-temperature situations.

To minimise the potential risks associated with chemical migration, it is recommended to use containers specifically designed for microwave and dishwasher use, follow the manufacturer's instructions, and avoid exposing plastic containers to excessive heat.

Plastic containers can be used to store perishables and dry goods, keeping them safe from decay

However, it is important to note that plastic containers may not be suitable for all types of food. Experts caution that heat and plastic don't mix well, as heat can break the chemical bonds in plastic and increase the rate of chemical migration from the container into the food. This means that plastic containers may not be safe for use in the microwave or dishwasher, even if they are labelled as such.

Additionally, the safety of plastic containers depends on the type of plastic used. For example, according to the National Association for PET Container Resources (NAPCOR), about 85% of PET bottles and jars are used for food and beverages.

Plastic containers can be used to store olive oil, which can retain its fresh taste for longer than when stored in a tin

Plastic containers are a good option for storing olive oil, as they can help retain its fresh taste for longer than when stored in a tin. One company tested an olive oil for kitchen use over a two-year period. After one and a half years of storage, the humidity from the kitchen created decay in the tins that the oil was stored in, causing a flavour distortion. The oil that was stored in plastic containers retained its fresh taste for dipping with bread for the entire two-year test cycle, which was how long it was supposed to stay fresh.

However, it is important to note that heat and plastic don't mix well. Heat helps to break the chemical bonds in plastic, and exposure to high temperatures increases the rate of chemical migration from the container into the food. Therefore, it is recommended to use glass or metal containers for long-term olive oil storage and then decant small amounts into plastic squeeze bottles for short-term use. This is a common practice in professional kitchens, where olive oil is used quickly and only spends a day or two in a plastic container.

Certain high-quality, hard plastics, such as PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate), are widely used for packaging extra virgin olive oil as an alternative to glass. Bag-in-box systems, where a plastic bag is placed within a cardboard box, are also gaining popularity for oils as they preserve freshness and are practical for handling larger quantities.

Plastic containers are used for food and beverages

However, it is important to note that heat and plastic do not mix well. Exposure to high temperatures can increase the rate of chemical migration from the container into the food. This is true even for containers labelled 'safe' for the microwave and dishwasher. Scientists have documented higher rates of chemical migration in water bottles left in the sun. Therefore, it is important to be cautious when using plastic containers for food and beverages, especially if they are exposed to high temperatures.

Plastic containers are used in restaurants and commercial kitchens

Plastic containers are also used to keep perishables and dry goods safe from the elements, as they will not degrade or decay. For example, one company tested an olive oil for kitchen use over a two-year period. After one and a half years of storage, the humidity from the kitchen created decay in the tins that the oil was stored in, causing a flavour distortion. The oil that was stored in plastic containers retained its fresh taste for dipping with breads for the entire two-year test cycle, which was how long it was supposed to stay fresh.

However, it is important to note that heat and plastic do not mix well. Exposure to high temperatures increases the rate of chemical migration from the container into the food. This can be a problem for plastic containers that are washed in the dishwasher or left in the sun.

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