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Is Eating In Plastic Containers Dangerous?

By Tanushree Kulkarni

Plastic is ubiquitous in today’s world. We eat in plastic plates, drink in plastic bottles, or even carry our food in it. Hence, the food that we eat is always in touch with plastic.

It is even present in food production and preparation. The food that comes to our plate is processed, packaged and shipped in plastic. In homes too, we heat our food in plastic containers.

According to a research, BPA found in food packaging, such as plastic containers, can cause a serious concern for the planet earth.

Agreed, it is more convenient to store, eat or carry water in plastic and it is also completely unavoidable at times, but is it also making us unhealthy?

Today, we at Boldsky will discuss whether consuming food in plastic is really dangerous for us or is it a lie propagated against plastic companies? Let us look at this issue in depth.

•The Presence Of BPA

•The Presence Of BPA

BPA, or bisphenol A, is commonly used in light-weighted or hard plastics such as water bottles or baby bottles. BPA is even found in food cans. According to a study conducted, BPA puts us at a higher risk for developing diabetes, heart diseases and liver toxicity.

•Phthalates

•Phthalates

Phthalates is found in a wide variety of materials such as PVC pipes and even perfumes. High level of phthalates in the body can be harmful for the testosterone hormone and the male reproductive system.

According to the studies, it can enter our bodies from a wide variety of packaging; it can even be accumulated in the crops or the livestock that we eat.

•Non-stick Cookware

•Non-stick Cookware

Non-stick cookware is generally considered to be harmless. But, studies have revealed that when exposed to very high temperatures, Teflon coatings on these pans release hazardous substance in the food. Avoid pre-heating them on high flames to tackle this.

So, What Is The Solution?

It is very difficult to totally eliminate plastic from our world. However, we can take certain steps, which can make us safer than before.

•Never Reheat Your Plastic Containers

•Never Reheat Your Plastic Containers

According to the experts, when you heat your food in plastic, chances of it leaching into your food is much more.

So, refrain from heating food in a microwave oven, even if it microwave safe. Avoid eating hot food in plastic plates.

•Refrain From Using Plastic Containers With 7 Or 1

•Refrain From Using Plastic Containers With 7 Or 1

Do not use plastic containers or bottles that have the numbers 7 or 1 marked on them. Plastic water or cold drink bottles that have number 1 marked on them should be discarded after first use. You should ideally recycle them.

•Use Glass Or Stainless Steel Containers

•Use Glass Or Stainless Steel Containers

To cut down on your plastic usage, go for the glass or stainless steel storage boxes. We would recommend recycling all your plastic containers, and instead opt for glass or steel. They are safe and healthy for your body.

•Avoid Using Plastic Bottles For Your Baby

•Avoid Using Plastic Bottles For Your Baby

Instead, you should go for tempered glass. Even if you are using plastic bottles, do not, we repeat do not heat them, as heating it could leach plastic into your baby's feeding bottle.

•Avoid Using Plastic In Cookware Or Dinnerware

•Avoid Using Plastic In Cookware Or Dinnerware

Avoid using cookware or dinnerware made from plastic. Heating them could transfer a large amount of hazardous material into your food. Instead, opt for cookware made of cast iron and dinnerware made of stainless steel or glass. It is a healthy solution for your well-being.

Story first published: Monday, February 8, 2016, 16:55 [IST]
Read more about: wellness plastic