Chloe Zhang
Plastic containers are a convenient way to store food, but they may not be the safest option for your health or the environment. The safety of using plastic containers for food storage has been a subject of debate among health experts and consumers. While some plastics are considered safe for food use, others may contain harmful chemicals that can leach into food, especially when exposed to heat. It is recommended to only use plastic containers designed for food storage and to avoid heating or microwaving food in plastic containers. To ensure food safety and reduce potential health risks, it is advisable to opt for glass, ceramic, or steel containers for storing hot foods, and to use plastic containers specifically for cold food storage.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Safety | Some scientists argue that chemicals in plastic can damage health. However, manufacturers and food safety authorities say the levels are too low to pose a risk to human health. |
| Regulations | Regulations set out by the Food Standards Agency (FSA) state what substances can and can't be used in plastic that comes into contact with food. |
| Recommendations | The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics in the US advises consumers to only use plastic containers to store cold food. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends avoiding plastic containers with codes 3, 6, and 7. |
| Risks | When hot food is placed in a plastic container, there is a risk that heat can cause chemicals from the plastic to leach into the food. |
| Safer alternatives | Glass, ceramic, and certain plastics (such as Polypropylene with the code 5) are safe for microwaving if labelled as "microwave-safe." |
| Tips | Use food-grade plastic containers. Wash plastic containers by hand. Only put plastics into the dishwasher if they have a dishwasher-safe label. |
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What You'll Learn
Plastic containers are safe for cold food storage
Plastic containers are widely used for storing cold food. They are lightweight, easy to store, and cheap. However, there are concerns about the safety of using plastic containers for food storage due to the potential risk of chemical leaching.
The safety of using plastic containers for cold food storage depends on the type of plastic and the food stored. Some plastics are safer than others for food storage. The safest choices for food use are plastics with resin identification codes 1, 2, 4, and 5. These plastics are generally considered safe and are known for their heat resistance. Polypropylene (PP), identified by the number 5, is widely recognized for its safety in contact with food and is commonly used in food packaging. It has a high melting point and does not leach harmful chemicals into food when used appropriately.
On the other hand, it is recommended to avoid using plastic containers with codes 3, 6, and 7 for food storage. Plastic number 3 contains vinyl or polyvinyl chloride (PVC), which may pose health risks. Code 6 plastic contains polystyrene, which may also be unsafe for food contact. Code 7 plastic can contain various plastics, including Bisphenol A (BPA), which is known to leach into food items after repeated uses and is considered a hormone disruptor.
It is important to use food-grade plastic containers that are specifically designed for food storage. Non-food grade plastic containers may contaminate food with non-food chemicals. Additionally, single-use plastic containers should be used only once, as they are not designed to withstand repeated heating and cooling. Plastic containers should also be washed by hand or in the dishwasher if they have a dishwasher-safe label to maintain proper hygiene and prevent pathogen contamination.
In summary, plastic containers with specific resin identification codes and those that are food-grade, single-use, or properly cleaned are safe for cold food storage. However, it is always recommended to refer to the manufacturer's instructions and guidelines to ensure safe and appropriate use of plastic containers for cold food storage.
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Some plastics are unsafe for microwaving
While plastic containers are convenient for storing and transporting food, some plastics are unsafe for microwaving due to potential health hazards.
Plastics are made from long chains of carbon polymers mixed with various chemical additives. When heated in a microwave, plastics can release toxic chemicals and particles known as microplastics and nanoplastics. These particles can contaminate food and pose potential health risks.
The U.S. Department of Agriculture recommends using only containers specifically designed for microwave use, such as glass, ceramic, or microwave-safe plastics. Containers labelled with a recycling code of "1" are intended for single use and should not be microwaved. Polypropylene, identified by the number "5,"" is considered safe for microwaving due to its high melting point and heat resistance.
However, some scientists argue that even "'microwave-safe'" plastics can release harmful chemicals when heated. These chemicals can leach into food, especially fatty or acidic foods, and have potential health consequences. The human health effects of plastic exposure are still unclear, but scientists suspect they may be detrimental.
To stay safe, it is recommended to use alternative containers like glass or ceramic for microwaving. Avoiding pouring hot liquids into plastic containers and opting for reusable non-plastic options can also reduce potential exposure to harmful chemicals.
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Food-grade plastic containers are recommended
Plastic containers are a part of our daily lives, used to store, freeze, heat, and transport food. However, concerns have been raised about the safety of using plastic containers for hot food, specifically the potential for chemicals to leach into food and the lack of enforcement of regulations.
To ensure the safe storage of cold food in plastic containers, it is recommended to use food-grade plastic containers. Food-grade plastic containers are specifically designed for food storage and meet strict standards set by food safety organizations. These containers are made from plastics that are safe for food contact, such as polypropylene (PP), identified by the number 5 within a triangle on the container. PP plastic is widely recognized for its safety, heat resistance, and lack of harmful chemical leaching.
The Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics in the US advises consumers to use plastic containers only for storing cold food. They recommend choosing plastics with resin identification codes 1, 2, 4, and 5, while avoiding codes 3, 6, and 7. These codes indicate the type of plastic used and help consumers identify safer options.
When using food-grade plastic containers for cold food storage, it is important to follow some best practices. Firstly, wash plastic containers by hand or in the dishwasher if they have a dishwasher-safe label. Before reusing containers, ensure they are free from odors and stains, as these can indicate the presence of bacteria or chemical breakdown. Additionally, avoid using single-use containers multiple times, as they are not designed for repeated use and may degrade over time.
By following these guidelines and choosing food-grade plastic containers, consumers can safely store cold food while minimizing potential health risks associated with plastic containers. It is important to stay informed about the latest recommendations from reputable sources to make informed choices regarding food storage and container materials.
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Plastic containers should be washed by hand
While plastic containers are convenient for storing cold food, it's important to prioritise safety and longevity by washing them by hand. Handwashing plastic containers is a straightforward process that ensures their longevity and helps maintain food safety.
Firstly, it's important to identify the type of plastic. Most plastic food containers have a triangle on the bottom containing a number from one to seven, which identifies the type of plastic used to make it. The safest choices for food use are numbers one, two, four and five. Number five plastic, Polypropylene (PP), is widely recognised for its safety in contact with food, even when heated.
When washing plastic containers by hand, it's essential to use hot soapy water and ensure that all parts of the container are thoroughly cleaned, including the grooves around the openings. This helps prevent the build-up of pathogens that can contaminate food. It's also important to check the condition of the container, as worn or damaged containers with scratches, cracks or misshapen areas should be disposed of.
Additionally, some plastic containers may benefit from a more thorough cleaning process before their first use. Some people recommend soaking new containers in soap water or vinegar to remove any impurities or chemicals left during manufacturing. This extra step can provide peace of mind and ensure that your containers are as safe as possible for food storage.
While handwashing is generally recommended for plastic containers, it's worth noting that some containers may be dishwasher-safe. However, it's crucial to check for a dishwasher-safe label before placing them in the dishwasher, as some plastics may melt or deform due to the heat.
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Some plastics are safe for freezing
It is generally advised to only use plastic containers for storing cold food. However, some plastics are safe for freezing.
The safety of using plastic containers for food, especially hot food, has been a subject of debate among health experts and consumers. It is well-established that certain chemicals can migrate from plastic into food and drinks, and some of these chemicals are absorbed by our bodies. Studies have shown that some of the thousands of substances used to make plastic products can "leach" or "migrate" into food and drinks.
The transfer of chemicals from plastic containers into food is higher with hot foods and certain types of food. For instance, fatty foods such as meats and oils, and acidic foods like tomato sauce, are more prone to absorbing chemicals from plastic containers. Therefore, it is recommended to avoid using plastic containers for hot food or drinks.
However, some plastics are suitable for freezing. It is important to check the bottom of plastic containers for a tiny triangle with a number, known as the resin identification code. This number, ranging from 1 to 7, indicates the type of plastic used and whether it is safe for freezing. Plastics with the codes 1, 2, 4, and 5 are considered safer choices for food use. Polypropylene (PP), identified by the number 5, is known for its heat resistance and is widely recognised as safe for contact with food. It has a high melting point, making it suitable for containers intended to hold hot food. PP does not leach harmful chemicals into food when used appropriately.
Additionally, food-grade silicone is considered safe for freezing as it can withstand heating and freezing without leaching hazardous chemicals.
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Frequently asked questions
Yes, it is generally considered safe to put cold food in plastic containers. However, it is important to use food-grade plastic containers, as non-food-grade plastic containers may contaminate food.
The safest choices for food use are plastics with resin identification codes 1, 2, 4, and 5. Polypropylene (PP), identified by the number 5, is known for its heat resistance and is widely recognized for its safety in contact with food. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends avoiding plastic containers with codes 3, 6, and 7.
Some scientists argue that certain chemicals can migrate or "leach" out of plastic into food and drinks, and some of these chemicals may be absorbed by our bodies. These chemicals include Bisphenol-A (BPA) and phthalates, which are believed to be endocrine disrupters. While manufacturers and food safety authorities state that the levels of chemical migration are too low to pose a risk to human health, some experts recommend avoiding heating or microwaving food in plastic containers to reduce potential exposure.
