Keep your leftover food safe when using plastic containers by following these tips.
The art of meal prepping and storing leftovers for next day’s lunch are a convenience for many families. It is also a great way to extend the pleasures of family gatherings, parties or holiday meals. Many kitchens are well stocked with plastic tubs, cling wrap and other containers when it comes to food storage. Although they cut down on food waste, some containers may pose more of a burden on the environment and potentially to your health than others. The Public Health and Safety OrganizationNSFandMichigan State University Extensionoffer consumers suggestions for food storage containers.
Use food grade plastic containers. A food grade container is one thatwill not transfer non-food chemicalsinto the food. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, non-food grade plastic containers may contaminate food. Plastic food containers must follow specific regulations to make sure they are safe for food.
Use single-use containers once. Plastics designed for single use should be used only once. Plastic breaks down over time, and some items are not designed to withstand heating and cooling. Most plastics with recycling code number “one” are intended for single use, such as disposable water bottles. Instead of reusing these plastics, transfer your food to specific containers designed for storing or reheating meals.
Wash plastic containers by hand. Only put plastics into the dishwasher if they have a dishwasher-safe label. Plastic containers may also be washed by hand. Make sure the grooves around the openings are clean so pathogens do not contaminate other food. When washing the plastic containers, be aware of any lids that no longer seal well, or the container is worn and has scratches, cracks or has become misshaped should no longer be used. If washing does not remove odors that plastic containers absorb, these containers should be disposed of.
Only freeze food in plastic containers designed for the freezer. Only put plastics in the freezer if they have a freezer-safe label. Single use containers, such as ice cream or milk cartons, should be avoided for freezer use. According to MSU Extension, use containers in the freezer that are moisture-vapor resistant, leak proof, and easy to seal.
Use appropriate food containers for the microwave.The U.S. Department of Agriculture recommends to only use containers that are specially manufactured for microwave use. Glass, ceramic and certain plastics are safe for microwaving if they are labeled as “microwave safe.” TheU.S. Department of Agriculturewarns against microwaving in single-use containers not intended for that purpose, such as yogurt cartons, margarine tubs or foam-insulated cups.
Following these recommendations will help to prevent illness and to keep your food safe. For more information on keeping your family's food safe, visitMSU Extension's Safe Food & Water website.
Did you find this article useful?
FAQs
Keeping hot or freshly cooked items directly in plastic containers should be avoided. High temperatures will allow the plastics to release certain chemicals into the food. Once the foods are cool, they can be stored in plastic containers.
Is it safe to keep food in plastic containers? ›
Keeping hot or freshly cooked items directly in plastic containers should be avoided. High temperatures will allow the plastics to release certain chemicals into the food. Once the foods are cool, they can be stored in plastic containers.
Why plastic containers are favored for storing food answers? ›
Plastic does not react with most of the substances. Hence, food kept in plastic container remains fresh for longer duration. Due to this, plastic containers are preferred for storing food.
Does food bought in plastic containers carry any risk of contamination? ›
Food and beverage containers, some disposable plates, and toiletry bottles are all plastic and all are made from chemicals. Research suggests that all plastics may leach chemicals if they're scratched or heated.
How long should you use plastic food containers? ›
While there is no set timeframe for replacing plastic food containers, experts say they should be tossed out when they show visible wear, chips, cracks, or signs of stains and odors. In place of plastic containers, experts recommend opting for glass or stainless steel instead.
Do plastic food containers leach chemicals? ›
How are humans exposed? Human exposure is primarily through eating food and drinking liquids that were in contact with BPA. BPA can leach from the plastic container or food can liner into foods and beverages.
How can you tell if a plastic container is food safe? ›
Plastic containers come with a food-grade rating on the bottom that ranges from 1 to 7. This gives consumers an idea of how safe they are for storing their food. Plastic grades 2, 4, and 5 are the safest for food storage. Using these plastics to store food will prevent accidental toxin ingestion.
What are the advantages of storing food in plastic containers? ›
Advantages of Using Plastic Food Packaging
Plastic containers can withstand high levels of stress and pressure, making them ideal for use in food storage and transport. Unlike glass or metal containers, plastic is not prone to breakage or shattering, making it a safer and more convenient option.
Why not to use plastic food containers? ›
Regardless of whether a plastic food container contains phthalates or BPA, it may not be entirely safe. Plastics break down over time, which means they can potentially release trace amounts of whatever chemicals they are made of into the food.
Why do we use plastic container instead of metal container for storing food articles? ›
Due to the fact that they do not react with the food or substances they contain, plastic containers are utilized as storage devices. So, they are safe and convenient. Metals are not used as storage for lengthy periods of time since they react with other food substances while plastics are non-reactive.
There's no standard rule of thumb about when it's time to throw out your plastic containers. How long your containers last depends on how well you care for them, and the quality of plastic they're made of.
What are the harmful effects of plastic food containers? ›
Plastics like BPA, PVC and polystyrene contain carcinogenic chemicals which have been linked to hormone disorders, immune issues, and cancer. Minimise the use of plastic by using canvas shopping bags and reusable glass containers, cups, and water bottles.
How long does it take for plastic to leach into food? ›
Experiments were designed to measure the ability of these chemicals to migrate from the container to samples of different foods and solvents. Analysis of the containers found parts-per-billion levels of PFAS that could migrate into both solvents and food matrices in as little as one week.
Is it better to store food in glass or plastic containers? ›
For better food safety, opt for glass storage containers. The right glass containers are freezer and refrigerator safe, meaning they won't release any harsh chemicals or break if frozen. Some glass storage containers are also leakproof, which offers a tight seal to prevent spills or food from going bad.
When should you throw out plastic food containers? ›
“Plastic food storage containers should be replaced every six months to one year, depending on usage and wear and tear. Over time, plastic containers can become scratched, stained, or damaged, and that starts to pose a food safety risk, explains Dragomir Markovic, food scientist and founder of Wise Intake.
What happens if we store food in plastic container? ›
Hence, foods that are hot, oily and acidic in nature must never be stored in plastic containers as they will encourage the migration of chemicals into them. You must avoid using plastic containers that are old, scratched, or damaged as they may have a higher risk of leaching chemicals into food, according to Dr Jha.
Why should plastic not be used to store food? ›
The recycled plastics should not be used for storage of food materials because there are chances of contamination of unwanted substance residues that may present inside the plastic before recycling. Those contaminants may appear in the recycled products also.
Is it safe to eat food grown in plastic containers? ›
That said, while it's typically better to grow food in the dirt and away from toxins, it is safe to grow vegetables in plastic containers so long as the planter is made of certain types of plastic approved for use with food.
At what temperature does plastic leach into food? ›
Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET)
When exposed to high temperatures, food-safe PET can leach the contaminant, antimony, into your foods. On the other hand, cold foods such as salads and wraps can be packaged and stored into PET containers. PET Temperature Limits: Up to 120°F.
Is putting hot food in a plastic container bad? ›
When hot liquids and foods are stored in a plastic container, the heat can cause the chemical bonds in the plastic to react, creating instability and allowing BPA to break down into the contents inside.
