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.
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FAQs
Wash plastic containers by hand.
Is it safe to use plastic containers for food storage? ›
In general, the safest choices for food use are numbers 1, 2, 4 and 5. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends avoiding plastic containers with codes 3, 6 and 7. Plastic number 3 contains vinyl or polyvinyl chloride (PVC), 6 has polystyrene and 7 can contain various plastics, such as Bisphenol A (BPA).
Do all plastic containers leach into food? ›
Even for containers labeled “safe” for the microwave and dishwasher, experts caution that heat and plastic don't mix well. Since heat helps to break the chemical bonds in plastic, it's possible that exposure to high temperatures increases the rate of chemical migration from the container into the food.
How do you preserve food in plastic containers? ›
Preserve food freshness by creating a secure, airtight seal when using disposable plastic containers. Confirm that lids fit snugly, forming a seal that prevents air from entering. This step is crucial for stopping oxidation, which causes spoilage of food and loss of flavors.
What not to store in plastic containers? ›
Below are the seven things never to store in plastic containers and the best alternatives to balance convenience with safety and preservation.
- Important documents and valuables. ...
- Food items. ...
- Chemicals and hazardous materials. ...
- Electrical equipment. ...
- Medications. ...
- Clothing and fabrics. ...
- Premium spirits and wines.
BPA easily leaches from baby bottles, especially when washed with hot water in a dishwasher, washed with harsh alkaline detergents, dipped in boiling water for sterilizing, or heated in a microwave [10]. Therefore, young infants using BPA-containing plastic baby bottles may suffer sustained exposure to toxic BPA.
Are Ziploc bags safe for food storage? ›
The simple answer to this question is YES; they are safe for food storage because they are made from virgin LDPE material. Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE) is one of the most inexpensive and versatile plastics.
Is microwaving food in plastic bad? ›
While many food storage, preparation, and serving products are made from plastic, microwaving them can accelerate the release of harmful chemicals like BPA and phthalates. Therefore, unless the plastic product is deemed microwave safe, avoid microwaving it, and replace worn plastic containers with new ones.
Is microwaving food in plastic containers safe? ›
Use glass, ceramic and plastic containers and plastic wrap that are labelled as microwave safe. Always follow the instructions on the label when you use microwave-safe containers to heat food. Never heat or store food in plastic containers that were not intended for food.
When did Rubbermaid stop using BPA? ›
Rubbermaid has a page on their website to help consumers identify which containers contain BPA. They are introducing a “BPA-free” logo on the bottom of new products that do not contain the chemical. The website claims all products made from January, 2010 onwards are BPA-free, and do not contain dioxins or phthalates.
While spices don't necessarily spoil or go bad, in the traditional sense, plastic storage containers don't provide an air-tight seal. Plastic is porous and allows air to leak into the food container. When spices are exposed to the air it can cause them to go stale faster.
Is it safe to store flour in plastic container? ›
Frequently Asked Questions. Should I store my flour in a glass or plastic container? You can contain your flour in either a glass or plastic container; either option will work just fine. Just be sure that it is airtight, BPA-free, and food safe.
Which container is best for storing food? ›
If you're trying to reduce the use of plastic in your life, opt for glass food storage containers instead. Glass food storage containers can keep food fresh just as well as plastic, and are known to stain less and keep smells at bay.
Is Tupperware plastic harmful? ›
Tupperware says all of its products are BPA free as of 2010, but any older products still might contain levels of BPA. If you want to check if your Tupperware is BPA-free, check the bottom of the container. Any number 1 through 6 means it is BPA-free, but a 7 means there might be BPA in that product.
Is Tupperware from the 80s safe? ›
The Tupperware® brand didn't nix BPA until 2010, and truly vintage Tupperware may even leach heavy metals like cadmium, lead, and arsenic into stored food.
Is it better to store food in plastic or glass? ›
When it comes to durability, longevity, and its ability to be recycled, glass is the winner! Glass containers for food and beverages are 100% recyclable and can be recycled endlessly without loss in quality or purity, whereas most plastic will end up in a landfill.
Why should plastic not be used to store food? ›
Plastic packaging can contain harmful chemicals that can leach into the food it contains. This is especially true for plastic containers that are used to store hot or fatty foods. The heat and fatty acids can cause the plastic to break down and release harmful chemicals into the food.
Can you get Microplastics from plastic containers? ›
People also are likely exposed to microplastics while storing food in plastic containers. One study found microplastics in all reusable plastic takeout containers from restaurants. Storage of hot food in takeout containers accelerates the rate of leaching of microplastics and other potentially hazardous substances.
Do food storage containers have BPA? ›
In addition to food containers, BPA has been used in various other products, such as shatterproof windows, water bottles and eyewear, and in resins coating metal food cans, bottle tops and water supply pipes. The composition of your plastic product can depend on the year you bought it, Vandenberg said.
