To prevent food waste and reserve food, the most common way is to use reusable containers. However, in the current world where health has become one of the most essential concerns for humans, safety matters a lot while using these containers.
Some of them are safer than others, and some are good for the eco-friendly atmosphere. An essential aspect in this regard is the misconception about the use of plastic. To understand more deeply this topic, we are discussing some of the most useful tips about plastic food storage containers with lids here:
Use the container after reading the codes:
Plastic food containers always have a code at the bottom, which can be between one and seven. These codes are called resin identification code and are given in a tiny triangle. You must have the information about these codes and the best ones for storing food. According to the experts, you only need to use codes 1, 2, 4, and 5. These experts also warn about the containers that have the numbers 3, 6, and 7. Therefore, if you are buying plastic storage containers, be stick with the numbers that are recommended. The containers with the remaining codes have polyvinyl chloride (PVC), vinyl chloride, polystyrene, or BisphenolA (BPA) that are harmful to human health.
It is essential to mention that according to the law for elaborating more about these harmful plastic materials, the manufacturers of sippy cups and baby bottles are not allowed to use BPA. However, it does not mean that you cannot use it in any situation as this material is suitable for food and beverage containers. The monitoring of these containers is under process, but the experts of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration consider BPA a safe material. We recommend you not to use the containers that have BPA as many others are available in the market.
Keep These Containers Cool:
For preparing good-quality plastic food storage containers with lids, the manufacturers use polycarbonate plastic that is considered one of the strongest and long-lasting ones. However, it can be damaged in high temperatures and by excessively using. Therefore, experts do not recommend using it for hot food items. Moreover, do not use these containers in the microwave.
It is also important to mention that those containers, which you get when you buy packaged microwavable meals, should not be used after once. The reason is that these containers are prepared only for one time. Also, do not leave plastic containers in the dishwasher unattended.
Recycling is Essential:
In 2017, only eight percent of the total plastic was recycled according to the EPA. It is alarming. The reason is that it can increase greenhouse gas in our environment. If this negligence continues, it can affect our health and the environment drastically.
The Bottom Line:
When you are buying plastic food storage containers with lids, you need to be wise and intelligent. The experts recommend using these containers only for use as a cold storage option. You can also use these containers for sending food to your loved ones at far-off places. Using stainless steel and glass is a better option. The reason is that cleaning, recycling, and reusing plastic containers are not an ideal option.
