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Airtight plastic containers are everyday kitchenware and household items that are both versatile and easy to use. These nifty containers are convenient and durable and help keep our food items fresh for a long time. And plastic is almost irreplaceable in our daily lives, from kitchen storage containers to lunchboxes.
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SAFETY CONCERNS WITH AIRTIGHT PLASTIC CONTAINERS: DEBUNKING MYTHS AND ENSURING PROPER USAGE
Airtight plastic containers are everyday kitchenware and household items that are both versatile and easy to use. These nifty containers are convenient and durable and help keep our food items fresh for a long time. Plastic is almost irreplaceable in our daily lives, from kitchen storage containers to lunch boxes. But wait! Are these containers safe for storing food? Isn’t plastic bad for us? Thanks to newspapers, television, and other media, there has been a growing concern about the safety of plastic containers, fuelled by myths, misconceptions, and some straight-up facts. So, are plastic containers actually for us?
LIFE IS PLASTIC…IT’S NOT FANTASTIC! A study by the World Wildlife Fund found that the average person could be consuming around 5 gm of plastic per week. Moreover, BPA (BisphenolA, a chemical compound commonly used in plastics) and Phthalates (a chemical used to make plastics more flexible) were found to be dangerous for humans, causing a variety of serious diseases. Another news report by The Guardian stated that only around 9% of all plastic waste is ever recycled. Some plastics are made without BPA and phthalates and are perfectly safe for human consumption. Moreover, with our current technological capabilities and research, a new type of biodegradable plastic is being manufactured, which doesn't seep into water bodies and our soil. Plastic like this isn't bad for our environment and our health in general. Moving on, let’s debunk more plastic rumors and make them concrete. (No pun intended)
DEBUNKING PLASTIC CONTAINER MYTHS Myth 1: All plastic containers release harmful chemicals One common misconception is that all plastic containers release harmful chemicals into the stored food. However, while it is true that plastics that have BPA in them can leach these toxic chemicals into our food, modern airtight plastic containers are made out of BPA-free materials. These containers are specifically designed to minimise the risk of chemicals leaching into the stored contents. Thus, when you purchase plastic food containers, make sure you look for a BPA-free label. Myth 2: Airtight containers trap harmful bacteria Some people worry that airtight plastic containers harbour the growth of harmful bacteria inside them. However, in reality, airtight containers are designed to keep air and moisture out, which specifically prevents the growth of microorganisms that can spoil our food. Thus, when used correctly, these types of containers can actually extend the shelf life of your stored food and reduce the risk of bacterial contamination. Myth 3: Microwaving Airtight Containers Releases Toxins Many people believe that microwaving food in airtight plastic containers can release harmful toxins in our food. However, most airtight containers are microwave-safe if they are labelled as such. Thus, when using airtight containers in the microwave, follow the manufacturer's guidelines regarding temperature and duration. Moreover, avoid using containers that aren't marked microwave safe, as they can actually leach harmful chemicals into your food.
PROPER USAGE GUIDELINES FOR AIRTIGHT PLASTIC CONTAINERS • Check for BPA-free labels Opt for airtight plastic containers that are labeled as BPA-free, as this will minimize the risk of chemicals leaching into your food. • Choose the right materials Select containers that are made from safe materials like polyethylene or polypropylene, which are known for their durability and food-safe properties. • Follow proper hygiene practices Ensure that containers are clean and dry before each use to prevent bacterial growth. Moreover, allow hot foods to cool before sealing them in airtight containers.
Final Thoughts Airtight plastic containers can be a safe and convenient option for food storage when used properly. By debunking common myths and following these guidelines, you can enjoy the benefits of airtight containers without compromising your safety or the quality of your stored food.