Notes when using plastic food containers

(Baonghean.vn) - Currently on the market there are many plastic food containers of unknown origin, produced by hand, and not inspected. This can be a danger to consumers' health.Due to unsanitary production, using recycled plastic with many additives and toxic colorants.

Should choose inorganic, hard, white plastic box

We should use inorganic plastic food containers because this type of plastic is usually less toxic than organic plastic. To distinguish between these two types of plastic, you can hold it up to the sun, organic plastic will still see the sunlight, while inorganic plastic does not allow sunlight to pass through.

Pay attention to the hardness and color of plastic food containers. Hard, white plastic containers are often safer. The reason is that flexible plastic and colorful plastic are easily deformed or contaminated with chemicals and colorants at high temperatures, which can have a significant impact on health and cause dangerous diseases.

Do not reuse thin plastic bottles and containers

According to research by experts, soft drink bottles or thin plastic boxes are often made from disposable plastic. Over time, when reused and exposed to sunlight, high temperatures, etc., chemicals, additives, and colorants used in the manufacturing process of this type of plastic can seep into the water and cause harm to health.

Bottles and boxes made from this type of plastic are difficult to clean because they are porous and easily absorb fragrances and bacteria during use.

Avoid using plastic containers to store hot food.

When using plastic containers to store hot food, especially at temperatures above 100 degrees Celsius, the monostyrene (a toxic substance) in the plastic will be released and seep into the food. This causes serious damage to the liver and causes many dangerous diseases to health.

Absolutely do not use plastic containers to store food when putting it in the microwave. The high temperature in the oven can cause toxic substances from the plastic to be released and seep into the food, causing serious harm. Not only that, the combination of fat in food with synthetic plastic will create dioxin, which is very dangerous to health.

* Symbols on the bottom of plastic bottles you need to know to avoid poisoning

These symbols contain important information because each type of plastic contains chemicals that can cause various levels of health problems. Below is a summary of 7 commonly used plastics and their symbols.

Number 1- PET or PETE

PET plastic (short for polyethylene terephthalate) is one of the most commonly used plastics for household products, such as mineral water, soft drink, beer bottles and packaging.

This symbol indicates that plastic is for single use only. If used repeatedly, it can increase the risk of leaching heavy metals and chemicals that make up the plastic. These substances affect the hormonal balance in the body.

Number 2 - HDP or HDPE

HDP stands for high density thermoplastic, which is a type of plastic used to make hard plastic containers such as milk jugs, detergent bottles, cooking oil bottles, toys and some plastic bags.

This type of plastic does not emit any toxic substances, so experts often recommend choosing HDP bottles when shopping because they are considered the safest of all.

Number 3 - PVC or 3V

PVC is a soft and flexible plastic used to make clear food packaging, cooking oil bottles, toys and many other products. PVC is quite common but it contains two toxic chemicals that affect the body's hormones. This substance can release toxins at high temperatures, so it is only allowed to store food or drinks below 81 degrees Celsius.

No. 4 - LDPE

LDPE is a low-density thermoplastic commonly found in noodle boxes, freezer boxes, shopping bags, and cake wrappers. Products containing this material cannot be heated in the microwave, and high temperatures can release chemicals.

No. 5 - PP

PP is a white or nearly transparent plastic used to make yogurt cups, syrup cups, or coffee cups. It is strong and lightweight, and can withstand temperatures of 160 degrees Celsius. PP is also very resistant to moisture and grease.

Number 6 - PS

PS is a lightweight plastic that can be found on some fast food containers, drinking cups, egg cartons, and picnic cutlery. Although it can withstand heat and cold, it can release toxic substances at high temperatures such as in a microwave. It is also not recommended to use it to store strong acids or strong alkalis. Therefore, this type of plastic is not allowed to be used for long-term food and drink storage.

Number 7 - PC or no symbol

PC is widely used, especially in making milk bottles and disposable cups. Products containing this type of plastic contain BPA, which is very dangerous and can decompose into carcinogens.

This is a type of plastic that contains bisphenol-A (BPA). This substance can leach into food and have negative effects on health such as changes in immune system function, cardiovascular disorders, cancer, infertility, etc. Therefore, it is absolutely not recommended to use or reuse them in any form.

symbols on plastic bottles

Ngoc Anh

(Synthetic)