Plastic Containers
Safe Use Tips
-When purchasing cling-wrapped food from the supermarket or deli, slice off a thin layer where the food came into contact with the plastic and store the rest in a glass or ceramic container or wrap it in non-PVC cling wrap (see Product Comparisons).
-Avoid storing fatty foods, such as meat and cheese, in plastic containers or plastic wrap.
-Hand-wash reusable containers gently with a nonabrasive soap; dishwashers and harsh detergents can scratch plastic, making hospitable homes for bacteria.
Microwaves
-A "microwave-safe" or "microwavable" label on a plastic container only means that it shouldn't melt, crack or fall apart when used in the microwave. The label is no guarantee that containers don't leach chemicals into foods when heated.
-It's best to remove food from plastic containers or wraps and instead microwave the food in glass or ceramic containers.
-The FDA advises placing microwave-safe plastic wrap loosely over food so that the steam can escape. Plastic wrap should not directly touch your food.
-The USDA warns on its website against microwaving in single-use containers not intended for cooking, such as takeout platters or margarine tubs.
-Never use plastic storage bags, grocery bags, newspapers or aluminum foil in the microwave.
Reducing Your Use of Plastic
We could all do with a little less plastic in our lives, no matter the type of resin. All plastics are made from petroleum, a nonrenewable resource, and produced under extremely energy-intensive conditions, so here are a few things to keep in mind when shopping:
-Always opt for plastic containers that are accepted for recycling in your area.
-Avoid single-use, non-recyclable disposable packaging, such as Styrofoam meat trays, and clam-shell containers.
-Buy food in glass or metal containers
-Bring your own containers to restaurants, if you suspect you might have leftovers.
-If you do get takeout you'll be eating at home, don't take plastic cutlery or condiment packets.
-Avoid plastic cooking tools; use stainless steel or wooden utensils instead.
-Replace your plastic cutting boards with wood. You can spray wooden boards with a mist of vinegar, then with a mix of hydrogen peroxide, to kill bacteria.
-Take your plastic grocery bags to a local Wal-Mart or Whole Foods to be recycled.
The Extra Step:
Write a letter to manufacturers of foods and drinks packaged in unsafe #3, #6 or #7 plastics, and tell them you want products packaged in safe, reusable glass, metal or recycled plastic. You can find a mailing address on their products, by calling their toll-free question/comment line or on their website. And don't stop at the grocery store. Call the owners of your favorite coffee shop, restaurant or cafe and ask them to improve their policies for reusable containers. Some food-service joints fear reprimands from the local Health Department by allowing customers to use their own containers for takeout or for coffee. Find out your health department's stance on the issue and encourage restaurants to be more lenient in their policies.
