There are current and ongoing studies about the use of plastic and food safety. While some of this information has been reported in television news, most of it is available in online news, and easy to find with a search engine. The internet has created a vast amount of knowledge and important information. Thus getting info about concerns with food and storage has become very easy to do. With added information available quickly, it helps to teach people how to handle food properly so no cross-contamination occurs.
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.
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