When hot, fatty, acidic or salty foods or drinks are placed in plastic containers, it finally allows the transfer of chemicals from plastic containers into food or drinks. Bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates are two chemicals from plastics that are often associated with the risk of health problems.
The food and drinks we consume almost always come in contact with plastic, since they are sold in markets or supermarkets, we bring them home, until we process them and store them. In this process, there is a transfer of chemicals from plastic packaging to food. BPA and phthalates are said to transfer these harmful substances.
Danger of BPA and Phthalates
BPA is a material that has long been used to harden plastics, including reusable beverage bottles and food containers. This material is also commonly found in cans of formula milk to prevent rust, baby milk bottles, and some toddler supplies. BPA is thought to have an impact on increasing the risk of heart disease, cancer, liver disorders, diabetes, brain disorders and behavior in young children.
While phthalates are chemicals that are used to make plastic both sturdy and flexible. In addition to plastic, this material can also be found in shampoo, soap, detergent, nail polish, and hair spray. But be careful, phthalates are thought to cause endocrine disruption, increase insulin resistance, and trigger obesity in children.
Phthalates are also thought to risk inhibiting the work of testosterone, which affects fertility and health of the male reproductive tract and other organs. In high levels, the ingredients are thought to be related to the low number and quality of adult male sperm. This substance is also thought to increase the risk of miscarriage in pregnant women. Other studies have found that fetuses exposed to these chemicals are more at risk of developing asthma and lung disorders.
Avoid BPA and Phthalates
One of the easiest solutions to avoid these chemicals is to check the numbers in the recycling triangle found at the bottom of the plastic container. The code issued by the Society of the Plastics Industry (SPI) applies internationally to identify the type of plastic container. Containers with different numbers will be recycled separately. In general, numbers 1, 2, 4, and 5 are safe to use.
In addition, the following simple ways that can be done to protect yourself and your family from harmful materials from plastic.
- Avoid storing or heating food in plastic containers.
- Avoid yourself from foods and drinks that often contain BPA, such as packaged foods and canned milk.
- Stop using plastic containers that have been scratched and damaged.
- Always wash newly purchased plastic containers before use.
- Choose plastic containers labeled 'BPA free' or BPA free.
- Choose a glass container or when warming food ingredients.
- As much as possible avoid giving formula milk (which is generally packaged in cans) to the baby.
- If you want to store hot food and drinks, chill before placing them in plastic containers.
- It's safer to use glass baby bottles than plastic. If using a plastic bottle, avoid heating it.
- Dispose of plastic bags or packaging that are not used.
After understanding the safety level of plastic packaging and the risks behind it, it never hurts to be wiser in making choices when using plastic as a food or beverage container.
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