Plastic Containers And Food Safety: What You Should Know

One part of food safety that has come under an increasing amount of scrutiny is the role plastic plays with the storage and use of food

. Much of the concerns that are raised are the result of our ability to share and learn from a large amount of data. These means that we have more knowledge of health topics than we had years ago, and we can use that knowledge to take steps to avoid sickness from unsafe storage of food.

Research has shown that plastic contains phthalates, which are EDC's (endocrine disrupting chemicals). These chemicals can contribute to cancer and disrupt sex hormones receptors. In order to avoid being contaminated in this fashion, it is recommended that people avoid storing food in plastic containers. Instead, glass or steel containers should be used, which will prevent phthalates from seeping out of the plastic and into your food.

Most articles about food and the use of plastic containers will mention the concern that people have about microwaving food in plastic dishes. While there does not appear to be any concrete numbers about the validity of this concern as of yet, most experts feel there is the chance of a danger. With prevention in mind, the usual recommendation is to avoid using the microwave to cook food in plastic, and that if you do, at least avoid plastic cling wrap that is in direct contact with food.

Another concern about food safety concerns bottled water. Our bodies are made up of a large amount of water, and in order to remain healthy, we need to replenish that fluid daily by drinking water. With more people exercising to maintain their health, bottled water has become a main source of liquid intake. Water is a solvent, and is sometimes called the universal solvent, and therefore, plastic bottled water could have phthalates that have leaked from the plastic and dissolved in the water. People either choose not to use bottled water or they choose to ignore the warnings, as it has become a convenient way to get a refreshing sip on-the-go. The danger is increased with the time the water has been in the bottle and also with temperature changes.

Food safety research seems to have different results depending on who is doing the research, or at least depending on who is funding it. Therefore, much of what has been discovered is inconclusive and up to interpretation. If you are truly concerned about your health when it comes to food and plastics, then you are probably better off being safe than sorry. Stick with glass and other containers.

by:Ashley King.

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