Maya Ellison
Plastic storage containers are a convenient way to store food, but they don't last forever. While plastic containers are more durable than glass, they can degrade over time, compromising their integrity and potentially leaching harmful chemicals like BPA into your food. To avoid this, it's important to regularly inspect your plastic containers for any signs of damage, such as scratches, cracks, stains, warping, or pitting, and replace them when necessary. Proper care and maintenance can extend the lifespan of your plastic containers, but knowing when to let them go is crucial for your health and safety.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Lid | If the lid is missing, warped, or not sealing |
| Odors | If there are lingering odors, it may indicate food residue or bacteria |
| Stains | If stains don't come out, it's time to discard the container |
| Texture | If the container is textured or warped, it has been exposed to high heat and is degrading |
| Scratches or cracks | If the container is scratched, cracked, or pitted, it may leach plastic into food |
| Age | Containers over a year old may need to be replaced |
| BPA | If the container has the number 7 on the bottom, it contains BPA and should not be reused |
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Odours and stains
Lingering odours in plastic containers can be caused by food residue or bacteria. To remove odours, you can try various household ingredients known for their odour-absorbing or neutralising properties, such as:
- Newspaper: Crumple up sheets of newspaper, place them in the container, seal it, and let it sit for 24-48 hours. Then, wash the container with dish soap and water.
- Salt: Place a large pinch of salt in the container, seal it, and let it sit overnight or until you plan to use the container again. Remember to remove the salt before using the container.
- Charcoal: Place a piece of natural charcoal in the container, seal it, and let it absorb the odour for a day or two.
- Lemon: Rub the inside of the container with lemon juice or a cut lemon slice. The citric acid in lemons is great for neutralising odours and can also help lighten food stains.
- Baking soda: Rinse the container with cool water, then fill it with warm water and add one tablespoon of baking soda. Seal the container and let it sit overnight. Alternatively, create a baking soda paste by mixing baking soda with a bit of water, rub the paste inside the container, and let it sit for a day or two before washing it off.
- Vinegar: Fill the container with a solution of 1 tablespoon of white vinegar and 1 cup of hot water, and let it soak for at least an hour. Then, wash the container with dish soap and running water. Vinegar will help neutralise odours and break up stains or grease.
If these methods don't work and the odour or stain persists, it may be a sign that the container is no longer safe to use for food storage. In this case, it's best to discard or repurpose the container for non-food-related storage. Remember to always wash your plastic containers thoroughly by hand and avoid high-heat dishwashers to prolong their lifespan and maintain their quality.
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Scratches and cracks
Plastic is susceptible to scratching due to normal wear and tear, and scratches can leave the finish looking dull. Shallow scratches can often be removed using light abrasives such as toothpaste, baking soda, or furniture polish. These mild abrasives can help buff out and smoothen the scratched surface, restoring its original finish. It is important to start with the least abrasive cleaning agents and work in small circular motions to avoid creating additional scratches.
For deeper scratches, a more aggressive approach may be necessary. Wet micro-grit sandpaper can be used to polish out these scratches. It is important to wet the sandpaper to prevent further damage to the item and work carefully to avoid applying too much pressure, which could introduce new scratches.
If the scratch is too deep, it may not be possible to remove it completely. In such cases, the container may need to be replaced, especially if the scratches or cracks compromise the integrity of the container and increase the likelihood of leaching plastics into your food.
To prevent scratches and cracks, it is important to handle the containers with care and avoid exposing them to extreme temperature changes, which can also cause warping and degradation of the plastic. Regular cleaning with warm water and a mild soap solution can also help maintain the condition of the containers.
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Warped lids
The warping is likely due to exposure to high temperatures or extreme heat, either from a dishwasher, microwave, or even direct sunlight. To avoid this issue in the future, it's best to wash plastic lids with warm water and gentle dish soap instead of using a dishwasher. Additionally, store your lids flat or on their containers when not in use, and avoid leaving them in direct sunlight for extended periods.
Now, what can you do about the warped lid in front of you? Well, you have a few options:
- Contact the manufacturer: Some companies, like Tupperware, offer guarantees on their products, so you might be able to get a replacement lid for free or at a minimal cost.
- Apply heat: You can try to reshape the lid by applying heat to make the plastic pliable again. This can be done by using a hairdryer, submerging it in boiling water, or even putting it in the microwave with a little water. Just be cautious when working with heat and heated plastics to avoid burns or further damage.
- Find a workaround: If you're feeling creative, you might be able to duct-tape the lid to the container to ensure a tight seal.
- Repurpose the container: If all else fails, you don't have to throw away the container. You can always find new uses for it, such as storing craft supplies or organising drawers.
Remember, it's important to inspect your plastic containers regularly, especially if they're used for food storage. Warped lids might not be aesthetically pleasing, but they can still be functional with a bit of creativity and ingenuity!
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Old containers
Plastic food storage containers are a convenient way to store leftovers and pack lunches. However, they don't last forever and need to be replaced periodically. Old containers can become scratched, cracked, stained, or warped, and may no longer have a lid or a properly sealing one. These issues not only make the containers less effective at storing food but also increase the risk of harmful chemicals leaching into the food.
One issue with old plastic containers is that they may become scratched or pitted. Scratches can occur through regular use, such as when using utensils to remove food from the container. Scratches can also be caused by washing the container in the dishwasher, as this can expose the container to high heat. Scratches and pitting on the surface of a plastic container are problematic because they compromise the integrity of the material, increasing the likelihood of plastics leaching into food, especially when the container is used for reheating food. Therefore, it is recommended to discontinue the use of plastic containers for food storage if they have become scratched or pitted.
Another issue with old containers is staining and odour retention. Staining can occur when containers are used to store colourful or greasy foods, such as tomato-based sauces, red vegetables, or curries containing turmeric. While some staining is normal, consistent staining can indicate the presence of food residue and bacteria. Odours can also be a sign of lingering food residue or bacteria. Containers with persistent stains and odours may be unsafe for food storage and should be replaced.
Warping or texturing of plastic containers is another sign that they need to be replaced. Exposure to high heat can cause the plastic to warp or melt, indicating that the container has started the degrading process. Warped containers may no longer seal properly, compromising the freshness of stored food. Additionally, warping can be a sign of the presence of harmful chemicals, such as bisphenol-A (BPA), which can leach into food. Old containers with signs of warping or texturing should be replaced with new ones that are BPA-free.
Finally, old containers may lose their lids or have lids that no longer fit securely. Lids are essential for maintaining a proper seal and ensuring the container's effectiveness in storing food. If the lid is missing or does not seal snugly, the container is no longer suitable for food storage and should be replaced. It is recommended to inspect your containers and lids annually and repurpose lid-deficient containers for non-food storage purposes.
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Health risks
Plastic containers are a common and convenient way to store food. However, there are health risks associated with using plastic containers, especially when they become worn or damaged.
One of the main concerns with plastic containers is the potential for chemicals to leach into food. Plastic containers are made with various chemicals, including phthalates, PFAS (per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances), and bisphenol A (BPA). These chemicals can act as endocrine disruptors, interfering with hormones like estrogen and testosterone. Endocrine disruptors have been linked to cancer, reproductive problems, and other health issues. Research has also found microplastics in carotid plaques, indicating that these tiny plastic particles can enter our bodies and potentially increase the risk of serious health issues such as myocardial infarction, stroke, or death.
The risk of chemical leaching increases when plastic containers become scratched, pitted, or melted. Any disruptions on the surface of a plastic container compromise the material, making it more likely to leach plastics and other chemicals into food, especially if the container is used for reheating. This is why it is important to regularly inspect plastic containers and dispose of or repurpose them when they show signs of damage or wear.
Another concern is the improper recycling of plastics, which can expose consumers to toxins. Recycled plastics have an increased risk of contamination, and using them for food containers is not recommended. Even food-grade plastics, which are meant to be safe for food contact, may only be suitable for specific types of food. For example, a plastic container that is safe for dry food may not be safe for oily or liquid foods.
To minimize health risks, it is important to choose plastic containers carefully and avoid those that are damaged or worn. Consumers should also be aware of the potential for chemical leaching and avoid heating food in plastic containers, especially in the microwave or dishwasher. Switching to glass or metal containers can be a safer alternative to plastic. While plastic containers may be convenient, it is important to be mindful of their potential health risks and take steps to minimize exposure to harmful chemicals.
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Frequently asked questions
If a plastic container has any pitting, it should not be used for food storage. You can repurpose these containers for other storage uses, such as for craft supplies or in the garage.
To avoid stains, always store cooled food in your plastic containers and reheat food in a separate dish. You can also try using a cooking spray on your containers, which will make them easier to clean.
There are several methods for removing stains from plastic containers, including:
- Baking soda and water paste
- Hand sanitiser
- Sugar scrub
- Salt solution
- Bleach solution
