The End of the Tupperware Age: Choosing Safer Food Storage Containers
A number of us matured in the Tupperware age. Our moms and dads' refrigerators teemed with plastic food storage space containers, as well as we also maintained plastic margarine tubs for storing leftovers!
A great deal has actually transformed ever since, and increasingly more study is revealing that plastic leaches chemicals into our food as well as drinks, which can damage our health and wellness. Plastics like Bisphenol A (BPA) and Bisphenol S (BPS) have actually been revealed to have hormone-mimicking, estrogenic residential or commercial properties. BPA has actually also been connected to breast cancer lumps.
While BPA has actually been secured of several plastics because of consumer demand, it has actually been routinely changed with BPS, which may be much more hazardous. Studies show that it's currently found in 81 percent of blood tested which it can result in disorders such as diabetic issues, excessive weight, asthma, abnormality and cancer cells. (Note: As of March 2010, things marketed by Tupperware US as well as CA are BPA-free.) Just because something is classified BPA-free doesn't suggest it's risk-free.
Safest: Glass Storage Containers
If you have actually been working on your eco-friendly resolutions this year, choosing much safer food storage containers ought to be on your checklist. The safest choice for food storage space is glass. A number of years ago, glass food storage space containers were difficult ahead by as well as costly. Costs have actually come down a great deal and major manufacturers are including glass storage space to their lines, so it's a lot more easily accessible.
Search for brand names that are made in the United States because some glass imported from China has been shown to include lead or cadmium (especially if there is paint or enamel included). Two brand names that are made in the U.S. include Pyrex as well as Support Hocking. Duralex is made in France and Lifefactory is made in Europe, so they need to also be secure. Both Ball and Kerr canning containers are made in the UNITED STATE and also are a terrific option for food storage space as well. You can examine your existing glass for lead with LeadCheck Swabs.
Safer Than Plastic: Stainless Steel or Silicone
If you do not wish to make the button to glass but still want something that's thought about more secure than plastic, you can choose 304-grade stainless-steel or silicone. Neither of these materials need to seep chemicals right into your food.
Prevent High-Risk Plastics
While it's best to stay clear of plastic food storage containers entirely, there are more secure choices if you do not have the ways to make the switch yet. If you take a look at the bottom of your plastic food storage containers as well as they have a # 2, # 4 or # 5, those are typically recognized as secure for food and also drink. If any of your containers have a # 3, # 6 or # 7, those ought to be thrown away due to the fact that they are taken into consideration risky plastics.
If you're going to utilize among the more secure plastics, it's ideal not to keep acidic or greasy foods in them. Additionally be sure to toss out any type of plastic containers that are scratched up, used severely or are gloomy. And do not use them in the microwave or dishwasher for enhanced safety and security.