Are Plastic Storage Containers Healthy?
Plastic is a material that has permeated every aspect of our lives, turning into practical and comfortable tools. Bags, spoons, cups, storage containers and many other daily use products are produced with plastic materials. With their easy-to-clean slippery surfaces, hard structures that cannot be damaged quickly, and ergonomic designs that can fit in every cupboard, plastic containers have become an indispensable part of kitchens. But is the plastic we use every day healthy? Plastic, which is formed from the composition of substances such as petroleum, cellulose, coal and salt, is transformed into various products that will serve different purposes in different production centers. Although these substances extracted from nature seem natural, unfortunately, they contain components that can deeply affect human health. For this reason, plastic containers are not the right method for storing cooked products. High heat activates the components in plastic containers, these components can contaminate food products and unfortunately this can lead to various health problems. For all these reasons, plastic containers are not suitable for long-term storage of cooked products When exposed to high temperatures, harmful substances may be released and their form may deteriorate In plastic containers, containers with numbers 3, 6, 7 and above, which are known to be unhealthy, should be avoided Of course, this does not mean that plastic containers should not be used. Because unless the temperature is high, plastic provides a much better storage condition than any other material. For example, if you are freezing food, your first choice should definitely be plastic containers. Plastic is the material that you can get the fastest results in both cooling and thawing. Plastic containers are also the best choice for storing dry legumes. Because their suitable jerseys and lightweight structures are very suitable for carrying large amounts of pulses. In addition, plastics numbered 5 are known as the healthiest plastics. You can safely store any product you want in plastic containers numbered 5, which contain polyethylene. You can learn your plastic code from the prints on the bottom of your containers and use them accordingly. Which Food Product Should be Stored in Which Container? Kitchen utensils are a bit complicated. It is very important to know the material structure and its interaction with nutrients for proper use. We will present you our suggestions on which food can be stored in which container for a healthier and longer period of time. Plastic Containers Dried legumes Fresh fruits and vegetables Potatoes - Onions Breakfast products Foods that require short-term storage (eggs, cheese, olives, etc.) Foods to be kept in the freezer Oils Liquid oils Bread Glass Containers Hot and cold meals Vegetables and fruits Foods that need to be kept fresh Legumes Breakfast products Dough Water Spices Steel Containers Hot meals Jam or honey types Solid oils Greens that need to stay fresh such as arugula, parsley Which is the Healthiest Food Storage Method? Factors such as the condition of your food and the storage conditions you prefer will help you find the right and healthy storage container. If you prefer freezing, it is best to store your meals or sauces cooked in a steel pot in plastic containers or freezer bags after they have cooled down. If you want to freeze fresh fruit or vegetables, you can place them in plastic containers after chopping or as you bought them and place them in your freezer. Plastic containers are the best choice for foods that can be stored for a long time but at room temperature, such as pasta, dried beans, chickpeas, lentils, rice and bulgur. If you use the drying method for storage, the healthiest option is Madame Coco glass storage containers with airtight lids. These containers are also the best way to keep your leftover hot meals in the fridge for a long time in a healthy way. Glass is the most preferred kitchen utensil material due to its natural and harmless to human health. You can use glass containers to store any products under any conditions. Of course, provided that you leave the product in your glass container to thaw slowly after a very hot or very cold storage condition... Glass is also the healthiest material to keep your fruits and vegetables fresh. Unlike plastic containers, it is recommended to choose it for food products that you will store in the refrigerator for a long time in order not to experience odor changes in the products you put in it.
