Is it true that storing food in plastic containers is harmful?

One of the most popular storage materials is food grade plastic packaging. The container is made of high pressure polyethylene or other materials. There is an opinion that storing food in plastic containers is harmful. In this article, we will see if this is actually the case.

What types of plastic are

Plastic is technical and food. It is not worth storing food in a technical one: it is not intended for this. You can understand that we have food plastic in front of us by the standard icon with a glass and a fork in a square.

Next to it there will be an icon indicating the specific material from which the dishes are made. Such materials differ in their properties: for example, some are more flexible, others are more elastic, and still others are able to withstand temperature changes or high heat. These properties are provided both by the type of polymer from which the plastic is made, and by the additives that are added to it during the production process.

Types of plastic containers

The category of this product includes containers of various sizes: from polymer glasses with a volume of 0.180 l. up to cubic capacity of 1000 liters. Typically, such containers are equipped with sealed plastic lids that do not allow water, air and other substances that can harm the contents. Such a cover can be hinged or removable.

Modern technologies make it possible to produce containers of any color. Most often, transparent food plastic packaging is used: this is convenient, as it allows you to get an idea of ​​\u200b\u200bthe contents without opening the lid.

Where are polymer containers used? Plastic containers can be used for packaging and storage of any food products: drinking water, dairy products, salads, berries and fruits, jams, pickles, fish products, confectionery, ready meals, honey, etc.

They are indispensable in everyday life: it is convenient to take small volumes with you to work or a walk, and use large ones to store any items.

What do the numbers on the plastic mean?

PIT or PET

It is a lightweight semi-rigid or rigid plastic that is impact resistant and durable. Helps keep food or liquids inside the package. This type is most commonly used for soft drinks, sports drinks, drinking water, ketchup, salad dressing, vitamins, vegetable oil bottles, and more. The plastic is approved for food contact and is also recyclable.

HDPE

High Density Polyethylene (HDPE) is a hard, opaque plastic that is lightweight yet strong. It is usually used in the production of solid containers for the storage of various products. This type of plastic is food safe and can be recycled.

PVC

The element chlorine is the main ingredient used to make polyvinyl chloride, a common type of plastic that is biologically and chemically resistant. These two characteristics help PVC containers to keep the products inside, including medicines, intact. This component does not harm edible products and does not emit harmful substances, and recycling is also allowed.

LDPE

LDPE is thinner than some other plastics, but this does not affect strength, and it also has high temperature resistance. LDPE is commonly used in food packaging. Safe for food, does not alter its characteristics.

PP

Polypropylene (PP) is tough, and more durable than other plastics. It can be translucent, opaque and any other color. PP has a high melting point, which makes it particularly suitable for foodstuffs used in microwave ovens or dishwashers, for example. PP is commonly used in the food industry to make plastic food packaging for yogurt, sauces, jams, preserves, pickles, honey, sour cream and more. The plastic is approved for food storage and can also be recycled.

PS

Polystyrene (PS) is a colorless, hard plastic without much flexibility. Commonly used to make plastic cups, deli and bakery trays, fast food containers and lids, hot cups and egg cartons. Safe plastic for contact with food, can be recycled.

Pros of using plastic

• Cheapness

The cost of plastic containers is very low, especially if you buy it in bulk and directly from the manufacturer.

• hygiene

Easy to wash. With the help of water and dishwashing detergents, traces of stored food can be quickly removed from them.

• Practicality

Unlike bags, it retains its shape, so the products are not deformed. Such containers can be placed in several rows on top of each other.

• Resistant to high and low temperatures

In a plastic container, you can heat food in the microwave. Good quality packaging withstands deep freezing.

• Versatility

Any food products can be stored in polymer containers. Airtight lids protect the contents from moisture and foreign odors.

• Variety of shapes and sizes

Food plastic packaging is convenient to transport, it does not significantly increase the weight of the product itself.

• Long service life

Polymer packaging can serve for several years

• Recyclable
• A light weight