Labeling on reusable plastic utensils. Let's figure it out together: the harm and benefits of plastic utensils Plastic utensils for food storage

The most common polymer materials (types of plastic):

• Polyvinyl chloride (PVC)
• Polypropylene
• Polyethylene
• Polystyrene
• Polycarbonate

They are used to produce both technical and food plastics.

Plastics used for the production of products in contact with food and children's assortment must undergo examination for compliance with sanitary and hygienic standards and be certified. The manufacturer is obliged to label its products. Food-grade plastic has the generally accepted marking - “glass and fork”. It may say that it is intended for cold, bulk or hot foods, for use in the microwave or for freezing, sometimes indicating a temperature range.

For example, “Snowflakes” indicate that the container is suitable for freezing food, “stove with waves” - that the dishes can be heated in the microwave, and “shower plates” indicate that the containers can be washed in dishwasher. This marking is also used by some Russian manufacturers.

Harm

The harm of plastic

Plastic in pure form It is a rather weak, brittle material - it cracks in the light and melts in the heat. For strength, stabilizers are added to it. This makes the plastic stronger, but also more toxic. Because of this, it appears harm from plastic dishes.

The polymers themselves are inert, non-toxic and do not “migrate” into food. But intermediate substances, technological additives, solvents, as well as chemical decomposition products can penetrate into food and have a toxic effect on humans. Under certain conditions, plastic releases toxic compounds that, when entering the human body, negatively affect his health.

This process can occur while food is being stored or when it is heated. In addition, polymer materials are subject to change (aging), as a result of which destruction products are released from them. Moreover different kinds plastics become toxic when different conditions- some cannot be heated, others cannot be washed, etc. Incorrect operation becomes main reason harm from plastic utensils.

American scientists claim that up to 80% of “plastic” substances found in the human body come from construction and finishing materials, in particular from the popular plastic windows, furniture, but most of all from dishes: from food plastic, all kinds of compounds pass into food nutrition. Domestic manufacturers, assure that certified plastic utensils are absolutely safe - if used as intended.

Benefit

Advantages of plastic dishes

Compact, light, hygienic, low cost, ease of operation allow you to use plastic dishes outside the home - on the road, outdoors, etc. They do not require washing or cleaning. Therefore, the need for using plastic utensils is growing. Restaurants also use plastic dishes. fast food, summer cafes and snack bars.

Plastic food utensils: how to use

To plastic utensils are not harmful health, it must be used strictly for its intended purpose. Food grade plastic different brands has different properties. One brand of this polymer raw material is intended for the production of water bottles, the other for carbonated drink bottles. Yogurt cups are made from a grade of plastic that allows the casting process to produce lightweight and cheap capacity, while neutral towards milk fat, and pudding cups should resist sugar.

Experts insist: in no case should plastic packaging be used as containers for storing food, and disposable tableware should not be used repeatedly. Disposable packaging should be used for one time only.

How plastic will react to contact with ingredients for which it was not intended, no one has studied what compounds may form in this case. Particularly insidious are fats and acids, which can extract free toxic compounds from plastic.

Foods high in sugar and fat should not be cooked in plastic containers. They are heated to the point where the plastic melts and deforms. You need to cook them in special dishes, withstanding heating up to 140, 180 and more C.

At reuse disposable plastic tableware is damaged by its external protective layer, and carcinogenic substances begin to be released - formaldehyde, phenol, cadmium, lead.

You should not drink alcohol from disposable plastic glasses. Any plastic contains toxic substances, which do not dissolve in ordinary cold drinks, but do not withstand chemical attack alcohol.

The release of various compounds from plastic increases many times over when heated. Therefore, only special containers designed for this purpose can be used in a microwave oven.

At home, immediately remove the packaging film from food. Cut it off upper layer from products stored in plastic packaging.

Do not use disposable packaging to store food. Store food in glass and ceramic containers. Try to avoid products packaged in plastic whenever possible, preferring loose ones.

Buy baby food only in glass or cardboard. Do not use plastic containers for baby food. Do not microwave food in plastic containers.

Do not keep water in for a long time pitcher filters. In the morning and evening, replace the remaining water with fresh water. A plastic water jug ​​that becomes cloudy should be thrown away.

Also, disposable packaging was not intended for washing, so the result may be unpredictable.

Any polymer material ages under the influence of light, heat, heating and contact with all kinds of substances. Then it becomes cloudy, absorbs odors and ingredients from the contents and releases toxic substances.

Food manufacturers indicate that shelf life applies not only to the product itself, but also to the packaging. This is most true for canned goods. For example, a toxic substance can be found in them - biphenol.

Lined with plastic film containing biphenol inner surface tin cans so that the metal does not come into contact with food. From here biphenol can pass into the contents.

It is advisable to replace canned food with fresh or frozen foods.

Transfer food from opened cans into glass containers, even if we're talking about about short-term storage (under the influence of oxygen, corrosion of cans increases sharply and the content of lead and tin in food begins to increase rapidly).

Toxins can accumulate in the body for years, undermining your health. Even small amounts are poisonous if exposed for a long time.

Buy food, plastic utensils and cling film only from famous manufacturers and only in reliable stores.

Today there are disposable tableware made from environmentally friendly pure materials- cane, bamboo, based eggshells, as well as paper tableware made from cardboard.

ADDITIONALLY

Labeling of plastic utensils

To simplify the sorting of plastic, a special international marking has been developed - triangles formed by arrows with a number inside. The number indicating the type of plastic is located inside the triangle. Below the triangle is a letter abbreviation indicating the type of plastic.

PET Polyethylene terephthalate: bottles for carbonated drinks, water, juices, dairy products, vegetable oils, cosmetic products, etc.

Frozen ready meals in trays in which they can be heated in the microwave or oven, are made from crystallized polyethylene terephthalate. Its properties remain unchanged in the range from -40º to +250ºС. True, some brands may lose the necessary heat resistance after being subjected to deep cooling.

Buy drinks only in PET bottles and do not reuse them.

PP Polypropylene: medical products, bottle caps, hot dishes, food packaging film

Dishes made of polypropylene (PP marking) are safer. The polypropylene glass can withstand temperatures up to +100°C. You can drink hot tea or coffee from polypropylene glasses; you can heat food in the microwave in plates made from it. But upon contact with strong drinks and alcohol, it releases formaldehyde or phenol. If you drink vodka from such a glass, not only your kidneys, but also your eyesight will suffer. Formaldehyde is also considered a carcinogen.

PS Polystyrene: disposable tableware, cups for dairy products, yogurt, electrical insulating film

Polystyrene is indifferent to cold liquids. But when polystyrene cookware comes into contact with hot water or alcohol, it begins to release a toxic compound (monomers) - styrene. It is not recommended to place hot foods in polystyrene plates. Polystyrene plates are often used in summer cafes for barbecue. And along with hot meat and ketchup, the client also receives a dose of toxins - styrene, which accumulate in the liver and kidneys.

Disposable cups can only be used for water. It is better not to drink sour juices, sodas, hot and strong drinks from them. Some coffee machines use polystyrene cups. That is, you cannot drink hot coffee or tea from them.

Purchasing products instant cooking(those that just need to be poured with boiling water), pay attention to the packaging (cup, bag, plate). Although Rospotrebnadzor and certification bodies monitor the safety of materials, nevertheless, manufacturers often use polystyrene packaging. Therefore, it is better to transfer the products into ceramic or enamel dishes and then pour boiling water over them.

Cool food before storing it in a container. For hot food and microwave ovens, use only special containers.

If there is no marking on the plastic, you can distinguish PS from PP by touch - polystyrene crunches and breaks, and polypropylene wrinkles. Also basic distinctive feature polystyrene bottles - bluish color of the container. And when pressing with a fingernail on PS plastic, a whitish scar (stripe) always remains; on PP plastic, the container will remain smooth.

HDP Polyethylene high density: packaging bags, garbage bags

PVC Polyvinyl chloride: construction and Decoration Materials, furniture, shoes, medical products, water bottles, cling film

Synthetic poison dioxin can be released from PVC utensils in cases of heating food in microwave ovens, freezing water in freezers. Dioxins accumulate in human adipose tissue and are not eliminated from the body for a very long time (up to 30 years). Dioxin released causes cancer (especially breast cancer).

LDP Low Density Polyethylene ( low pressure): bottles for detergents and edible vegetable oils, toys, pipes, plastic bags.

Other types of plastic are multilayer packaging or combined plastic.

Mayonnaise, ketchup and other sauces, seasonings, juices, jams, ready-made soups and cereals that require heating, sold in bags. Such bags are made from multilayer combined films. The choice of film depends on the properties of the product, the period and conditions of its storage. Soups, cereals, main dishes are packaged in bags made of films with high temperature melting. Dishes in such packaging can be heated in the microwave or boiled directly in the bag. Such dishes can withstand temperatures from -40 to +230° C or more. But physiologists still advise eating them less often.

Dishes made of melamine (polymerized formaldehyde) - it is white, shiny (reminiscent of porcelain), weighs lighter, and does not break. When tapped, melamine dishes produce not a ringing sound, but a dull sound.

Using such utensils is extremely dangerous. To make the dishes stronger, asbestos can be added to it, which is prohibited even in construction (such dishes come to Russia from Turkey, Jordan and China). It cannot be used for hot food. When melamine dishes are poured hot water, formaldehyde begins to dissolve in water. Formaldehyde and asbestos can cause cancer. To ensure that the design on such a plate lasts for a long time, paints containing heavy metals, primarily lead.

Plastic has become an integral part modern life. It is used to make bags, bottles, water pipes, dishes and food containers. This ensures constant contact of plastic with food and drinking water, which, according to many experts, negatively affects human health.

Currently, five main types of plastic are widely used for the production of household items: polyvinyl chloride, polycarbonate, polystyrene, polyethylene and polypropylene. Moreover, the latter is officially recognized as safe for humans and is approved for use in all countries of the world, in particular in Russia, the European Union and the USA.

But some scientists do not warn consumers against the constant use of utensils and other household items made of polypropylene. According to them, the negative impact of this plastic on the human body does not appear immediately, but after decades. They are confident that polypropylene can potentially cause many serious diseases, including cancer.

To establish the truth in this matter, it is necessary to study in more detail what polypropylene is, how this material is obtained and what properties it has. In addition, it is important to find out how to properly use polypropylene products - what they are suitable for and what they are not.

Production

Polypropylene is produced by heating and then compressing synthetic raw materials. The highest quality material is produced under high pressure, which ensures the strength and complete safety of the plastic. This polypropylene is used for the manufacture of plastic tableware, packaging for yoghurts, processed cheeses, semi-finished products and others. food products.

It has high heat resistance, withstanding up to 150℃. Therefore, such plastic containers can be placed in a microwave oven without transferring food to glass or ceramic dishes. Cups made of high-quality polypropylene are suitable for drinking hot tea, coffee and other drinks.

The only restriction applies only to alcohol. The fact is that when interacting with an alcohol-containing liquid, polypropylene can release a toxic substance - formaldehyde. The amount of this substance is extremely small to cause significant harm to humans, but in some people it can provoke serious allergies.

Polypropylene obtained at medium and low pressure is prohibited from being used for the production of tableware and food containers.

This is explained by the fact that polypropylene manufacturing technologies Low quality require the mandatory presence of a catalyst – nickel, which can cause significant damage to human health.

Harm

Speaking about the dangers of polypropylene, most people wonder how serious the harm of plastic tableware is to humans? And this is no coincidence, because thousands of people use plates, forks and cups made of polypropylene every day during lunch breaks, snacks in inexpensive cafes, street stalls and on picnics.

Numerous studies have found that plastic cookware is not as safe as glass or ceramic. It turned out that polypropylene is able to actively interact with fats, in particular with vegetable and butter, releasing phenol and formaldehyde into food that are dangerous to humans.

In addition, according to some reports, toxic substances from plastic can penetrate into food under the influence of high temperatures and prolonged contact with food. But does this mean that using plastic utensils and containers is unhealthy?

According to the results of numerous studies, during which scientists injected high doses of polypropylene dust into the stomachs of rats, no negative effects of plastic on the body of experimental animals were identified.

Only prolonged inhalation of the pores formed when polypropylene is heated above 200℃ caused irritation of the mucous membranes of the eyes and respiratory organs in rats. Thus, plastic utensils are not harmful to humans if consumers do not violate the rules for their use.

But polypropylene cookware is not the most durable and safe. The highest positive properties has plastic utensils made from polycarbonate raw materials. Thus, household items made of polycarbonate can withstand very high temperatures and have a strength 200 times greater than the strength of glass.

In addition, polycarbonate is inert material and therefore does not react with food or drinks. Eg mineral water can be stored in polycarbonate bottles for 1 year without losing its beneficial properties.

But polycarbonate will be discussed in more detail in another article, and here we discuss the issue of the safety of polypropylene for human health, in particular polypropylene water pipes. This topic is extremely relevant, since nowadays there is a widespread replacement of outdated metal pipes to modern plastic ones.

Many people are frightened by this trend, because they do not believe in the harmlessness of polypropylene pipes and are afraid for their health and the health of their loved ones. Others easily agree to the installation plastic pipes in their houses and apartments, without being interested in the basic rules for their operation.

To begin with, it is important to emphasize that the most in a safe way The use of polypropylene pipes is to provide cold water supply. This is explained by the fact that when interacting with low temperatures, such pipes do not emit dangerous toxins, and therefore do not affect the quality of water.

Some otherwise the situation is with hot water supply and systems central heating. The fact is that when heated for a long time, plastic can release toxic substances such as phenol and formaldehyde. However, for this to happen, the water temperature in the pipes must be extremely high, whereas in reality it rarely exceeds 75℃.

Therefore, the harm of plastic pipes is considered greatly exaggerated, since they do not have a noticeable effect on the human body. But this is only true for quality products, and pipes made from low-grade polypropylene can cause serious harm to health and significantly reduce life expectancy.

To avoid such consequences, you need to know how to choose polypropylene pipes in the store and at construction market, and always follow these rules. Here are a few of the most important ones:

1. Buy only high-quality plastic pipes from well-known manufacturers, which are guaranteed not to contain harmful chemical compounds;
2. You should refuse to purchase if the product has too strong a chemical smell;
3. After installing pipes in the toilet, bathroom or kitchen, you need to ventilate the room well for 2-3 days.

Benefit

Of course, products made from polypropylene also have beneficial properties. Thus, disposable plastic tableware is highly hygienic and helps to avoid the transmission of many dangerous diseases. In addition, it does not break and has minimal weight, so it is convenient to take it with you on any trip.

Polypropylene pipes also have a whole list of positive qualities that make them so popular. Among them, the following useful properties should be noted:

• Low price. Polypropylene pipes are much cheaper than their metal counterparts;
• Easy and quick installation. There is no need to use a welding machine to connect plastic pipes;
• Not heavy weight. The low weight greatly facilitates the delivery and installation of polypropylene pipes;
• Corrosion resistance. Plastic pipes are absolutely not subject to rust;
• Hygiene. There is almost no plaque formation in plastic pipes;
• Reliability. Despite the popular belief about the fragility plastic structures, polypropylene pipes are very reliable and can last at least 30 years;
• Resistance to temperature fluctuations. Such pipes are not afraid of sudden changes in temperature.

Conclusion

From all of the above, the conclusion suggests itself that even the experts themselves find it difficult to say why exactly polypropylene is harmful to health. Negative influence This material has not yet been proven to work on humans, so in almost all countries of the world it is used for the production of dishes and water pipes.

Those who doubt whether polypropylene is harmful or not can be advised to protect themselves and their loved ones from contact with plastic as much as possible. To do this, all items made of polypropylene can be replaced with products made from more environmentally friendly materials, and plastic pipes can be replaced with modern metal pipes made of copper or stainless steel.

Plastic has long become commonplace in every family. Modern children are exposed to it from birth, sipping plastic bottles Milk heated in the microwave. But can we afford such a careless attitude towards plastic? How safe is it really? Should you choose plastic utensils for food products or use tried and tested old utensils? If you're worried about plastic, then maybe use paper utensils? High-quality dishes from the manufacturer on the website http://bumposuda.ru

We addressed these questions to leading experts in the field Food Industry. You will read the answers received in this article.

What types of plastic are used in industry

There are now several types of plastic that can be used for different purposes. Plastic itself is not toxic, but for the formation necessary qualities For each type of plastic, various chemical plasticizers, heavy metal salts, stabilizers and other substances are used. When they are exposed to direct sunlight, hot or cold temperatures, all the dangerous chemicals begin to be released into the product, which is in a plastic container.

Important

Each type of plastic has a marking that indicates its purpose. Using plastic for other purposes than its intended purpose will lead to the release of toxic substances from it, which in small quantities can cause allergic reaction, and in large cases - poisoning of the body and serious illnesses.

Types of plastic utensils for the kitchen

What markings should be on the plastic?

1. Melamine. Often not marked. This type plastic is used for utensils, which are sold on the market at every step. Plates and spreads various forms and sizes with beautiful bright designs often tempt a passing housewife to purchase such an inexpensive miracle for her kitchen. And now in the kitchen the plate begins to diligently serve the hostess, going into the microwave to heat up food or into the refrigerator for storage.

But, not every housewife knows that cheap dishes from the market are VERY toxic. Melamine is banned in many countries. The poison that is released from this type of plastic, under the influence of hot or cold temperatures, causes stomach and liver disorders, weakens vision and causes skin diseases. Melamine trays can be used for sliced ​​bread or cold sandwiches.

Important

If you have melamine dishes in your home for a long time that have scratches or damage to the design caused by lead paint, you need to change them. Shelf life of such dishes less than a year. It is not recommended to use this cookware for food products.

Manufacturers of high-quality plastic containers always put markings on their products, which determine the purpose of the container.

1. MarkingPP is our analogue of PP. The safest type of plastic utensils for food. PP plastic is used to produce feeding bottles, food storage containers, disposable glasses and even for production cling film. Such dishes are not afraid of either tall or low temperatures, approved for use in the microwave.

But, it is prohibited to store natural fats and alcoholic beverages in it. Fats and alcohols destroy the structure of plastic and substances that are released into products can cause a sharp deterioration in vision.

1. MarkingPS – our analogue of PS. Plastics with this marking are also often used to make food trays. Meat, fish, eggs are stored in it. Every housewife has more than once purchased packaging similar to foam plastic in the supermarket. PS plastic is intended for storing food in the refrigerator. In production, the following are often added to this plastic: chemical elements, which allow you to form it into cups for disposable use. You can drink cold drinks from them.

But, this plastic does not tolerate high temperatures. But often we come out of such glasses early in the morning or at cold period We've been drinking hot coffee on the street for years.

1. MarkingPET orPETE – our analogue of PET. This type of plastic is used for storing soft drinks. We often buy juices, water and other drinks for children in bottles made of this plastic. Disposable plastic tableware for food products is also made from this type of plastic. Vegetable oil can be stored in PET plastic bottles.

But, the shelf life of this plastic is one year. Do not buy products in stores with a long shelf life that is coming to an end, because the product contained in a bottle that is more than a year old is already saturated with chemicals harmful to the body. Dishes made from this plastic are also resistant to high temperatures and are intended for storing food at room temperature.

1. MarkingHDPE is our analogue of HDPE. Containers made from this type of plastic are widely used in the household chemicals industry.

But, plastic bowls, serving trays, mugs and other useful household items are often made from this type of plastic.

1. MarkingV orPVC is our analogue of PVC. This type of plastic is used for the production of plastic pipes, floor coverings, containers for strong household chemicals.

But, in combination with various chemical additives, you can obtain cheap raw materials for production plastic bottles large volumes for storing water, edible fats, disposable tableware. This type of plastic is the most dangerous for the body.

Important

If PVC containers are exposed to direct sunlight, then within a week the product stored in it will be poisoned by carcinogens.

You can easily find out that a container is made of PVC - just press the bottle with your fingernail and you will see a dented white mark from your nail on the container; other types of plastic do not leave a white mark.

1. MarkingLDPE is our analogue of MDV. This type of plastic is recognized as safe for the pharmaceutical and food industries. Various packaging and films are produced from it.

But However, it is not recommended to freeze food in this film; it is better to use special cling film for this purpose.

1. MarkingOTHER – Other. Cookware with this marking is highly durable and can withstand different temperatures, which is why it is often used in restaurants. This type of plastic is considered safe for the environment.

But, when dishes made from this plastic are damaged or after the expiration date, a carcinogen begins to be released from it, which can cause diabetes or hormonal disbalance body.

General rules for the use of plastic utensils

• For disposable tableware, use only those with the “glass, fork” symbol. If the icon is crossed out, this indicates that this dish cannot be used for storing food.
• If the dishes are damaged, do not use them; it is better to replace them with dishes made of a different material.
• Try to avoid cooking food in the microwave in plastic containers, even if the seller assured you that this can be done - your health comes first. Microwaves are also suitable for these purposes.
• You should also avoid using plastic to store food in the refrigerator.
• When going outdoors, leave plastic drink bottles in the shade or cover them to protect them from sunlight.
• Do not burn plastic dishes. As a result of combustion, a huge amount of toxic substances is released. Plastic must be disposed of in special trash containers.

Safe plastic utensils on airplanes

If there is an urgent need, you can use disposable plastic utensils; they will not harm you at once. you already know and know which type of plastic is not harmful to the baby.

If you have not yet decided whether to purchase plastic utensils for food products, then follow the advice of experts who do not recommend plastic utensils for regular use at home.

The use and application of plastic has become common occurrence For modern society. Without noticing it ourselves, we can say that plastic objects have seriously invaded our lives. After all, we use plastic products in our everyday life. Plastic containers, dishes, bottles, bags, food storage containers - we use all this every day.

The production of five types of plastic is now widespread. Polypropylene is considered the most popular type of plastic. This plastic causes minimal harm to health. But since polypropylene dishes are in constant contact with food and water, this can still negatively affect our health. Exists a large number of myths about polypropylene. This will need to be looked into further.

Products made from polypropylene

Polypropylene plastic is produced by heating and further compressing synthetic raw materials. Thanks to high pressure, it is possible to obtain a material of the highest quality, which becomes durable and most in a safe way plastic. It is very widely used in the production of plastic utensils, yogurt containers and processed cheese, processed foods, carbonated drinks and other various products.

The main advantage of polypropylene is resistance to heat and relatively high temperatures. Maximum temperature which this plastic can withstand is 150 0 C. This simplifies our life and saves our time, since food can be heated in a microwave oven already in a plastic container, without the need to use glass or ceramic dishes. In places Catering dishes from polypropylene plastic very widely used for hot coffee and tea, and other products.

It is very important to know one thing: you should not use polypropylene cups for alcoholic drinks, since when alcohol comes into contact with plastic, it releases formaldehyde, which is toxic substance. With constant use, a severe allergic reaction may occur.

It has already been scientifically established that plastic, which is made at low pressure, is dangerous for use in items that come into contact with food.

Benefits of using polypropylene cookware

Products made of polypropylene have their own marking, which is indicated PP. This plastic has three degrees of heat resistance - high, medium, low. This marking indicates that they are the safest when heated; they can be used for heating in microwave ovens. It can also be used in dishwashers. It is necessary to take into account the markings on the bottom of the cookware.

Therefore, on store shelves, in public catering establishments and at home, you can find products of this particular plastic. This material is also used to make lids for jars that we use in everyday life.

Positive characteristics of polypropylene products:

• Polypropylene refers to environmentally friendly plastic, so its use is widely used in medicine.
• Such dishes have high hygienic properties, saves us from the spread of many harmful diseases.
• It is also distinguished by its high strength, for example, with a slight impact or fall it will not break.
• Plastic products are light in weight.
• Does not corrode.
• Low cost.
• Does not absorb foreign odors.
• Disposable polypropylene tableware does not need to be washed or cleaned after eating; it is enough to dispose of it in a trash container.

These characteristics make this plastic very popular and practical. It can be found in every home. To ensure only benefit from it, it is recommended to use it only strictly for its intended purpose, following the recommendations and temperature conditions.

Harm to humans from using polypropylene tableware

Besides the benefits polypropylene products may cause harm to humans if used incorrectly or for other purposes. They have very few disadvantages when compared with other types of plastic, but they still exist. This must be taken into account.

Let's look at some of the disadvantages of polypropylene products:

• It is strictly forbidden to drink alcoholic beverages in polypropylene containers; this is dangerous to human life and health. This can affect your kidneys and vision. Also affects the central nervous system.
• Disposable plastic tableware is intended for one-time use.
• It is not recommended to buy polypropylene products from unknown manufacturers, without marking the type of plastic.
• Avoid contact with fire.
• Not recommended long-term storage products in a plastic container.

These were the disadvantages of using plastic utensils. Overall, she has good positive qualities. At correct use it is completely safe.

Recommendations that will only bring benefits from using plastic utensils

Products made from polypropylene are considered safe. Therefore, they are in wide demand.

1. It is not recommended to use disposable tableware multiple times.
2. Food containers made of polypropylene must be replaced with new ones after approximately 5-6 months from the moment of use.
3. Do not store long time food in a polypropylene container, then it will not be dangerous.
4. When purchasing, pay attention to the quality of the products.
5. Very often, unscrupulous manufacturers use non-food plastic containers in their production, so you must always pay attention to the labeling.
6. When unpleasant odor on products, you must discard them.
7. Items made from polypropylene must be disposed of as household waste, which goes to waste processing plants. Since this plastic decomposes in the soil for a very long time, and when burned, it begins to release dangerous toxic substances.

Domestic scientists claim that certified polypropylene tableware is safe, but only if it is used for its intended purpose, observing the terms and storage rules. If someone is still worried about their health, then there is always an alternative. You can use dishes made of paper or bamboo.

Hello.

Today I would like to talk about the dangers of plastic dishes. Many of us use such dishes to store or transport food. Plastic dishes it is very convenient to use, cheap and in many cases is considered much more effective than utensils made of iron or glass.

In our active times, where you need to “spin like a squirrel in a wheel” in order to achieve something in life, it is not always possible to store food in iron or glass containers (they take up a lot of space, have a lot of weight and size). People are increasingly using plastic dishes, which are very practical and lightweight, allowing you to carry food or eat comfortably.

The sales level of plastic tableware is increasing every year. A large number of disposable tableware is produced for various purposes: cups, plates, food storage containers, etc. Manufacturers claim that their products do not harm human health if the instructions for use are followed. Unfortunately, few of us know these instructions. But in vain...

What is plastic? The plastic itself is brittle polymer material, is considered non-toxic and does not harm human health. But manufacturers, in order to improve its durability and strength, add special chemical components that, under certain conditions, are harmful to health.

Plastic utensils come in different types. Available in materials: polypropylene, polyethylene, polycarbonate, polystyrene and polyvinyl chloride. Depending on the composition of the plastic, the product is used for different purposes.

Such utensils must indicate under what conditions they can be used. The manufacturer puts a special mark on its product, which indicates for what purpose it can be used. The most common signs are: “fork with glass”, “snowflakes”, “plates in the shower”, etc. . Such signs inform the consumer that the product is suitable for contact with food and that some manipulation of the plastic (for example, washing with water or hot/low temperature) is permitted.

The manufacturer also indicates the type of plastic. Most often this is a number in a triangle, which indicates what material it is made from. plastic container. Check out the marking table:

TABLE OF PLASTIC MARKINGS

1. Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is marked with a number "1" .
2. Low-density polyethylene (HDPE or HDPE) is marked with a number "2" .
3. Polyvinyl chloride (PVC or PVC) is marked with a number "3" .
4. Polyethylene high pressure(LDPE or LDPE) is marked with a number "4" .
5. Polypropylene (PP) is marked with a number "5" .
6. Polystyrene (PS) is marked with a number "6" .
7. A mixture of different plastics (OTHER) is marked with a number "7" .

Most often, the marking mark is placed on the bottom of the dishes. If you want to purchase plastic dishes, be sure to look for the number in the triangle. Let's take a closer look at the harm plastic can cause. different types if used incorrectly:

HARM OF PLASTIC TABLEWARE

1. Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) .

This material is considered environmentally friendly among others. Manufacturers produce from it disposable cups, plates, jars, boxes, bottles. The shelf life of such containers is one year. Unfortunately, this material has weak protective characteristics. He lets you in ultra-violet rays, air, which leads to a decrease in food storage time.

Also, the manufacturer may add additional chemical components (dicols, phthalates or other toxic substances) to improve the reliability of its products. Then such plastic can harm human health. The main rule is not to reuse PET containers, because they are lost over time. protective properties and toxic substances are released.

Also, when heated, formaldehyde is released, so you should not heat dishes made of polyethylene terephthalate (for example, in a microwave).

Low pressure polyethylene (HDPE).

It is obtained at low pressure. This material is included in various cans, bottles, and films. Mostly rigid containers. May be reused. We can say with confidence that it is one of the safest plastics. It has high hardness, high strength, excellent chemical resistance to fats, acids and alkalis. Melting point: +129-135. It has greater fragility, less water absorption, and vapor permeability.



2. High Density Polyethylene(LDPE) .

The material is very light and durable. Various plastic packaging (flexible), bags, films, containers for storing detergents, and some plastic bottles (for vegetable oil). It is considered environmentally safe for others due to its characteristics. Used for contact with food. Melting point is approximately 110 degrees. It is resistant to tearing and deformation. It is resistant to sunlight.

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3. Polyvinyl chloride (PVC or PVC) .

Very resistant to acids, various oils, solvents.

Dishes made from this material are very common. They make water bottles and are also included in some packaging films. They also make caps for plastic bottles (vegetable oil, for example). Dishes containing polyvinyl chloride must not be used for long storage any products.

To create color or impact resistance, manufacturers add additional additives: plasticizers, softeners, pigments, and so on. These additives are dangerous for humans.

Failure to comply with the terms of use will result in hazardous substances- phthalates, dioxide, bisphenol A, heavy metals and vinyl chloride (this is a very toxic substance that can be very harmful to health). Scientists have proven that when misuse vinyl chloride is released, which penetrates into food products.

Products made from polyvinyl chloride cannot be heated. When burned, toxic substances are released (very dangerous to humans). Hormonal imbalances, decreased immunity may occur, oncological diseases or infertility.



4. Polypropylene (PP).

Polypropylene is used to make food packaging film, yogurt cups, plates, spoons, lids for various containers, baby bottles, hot food containers. The material can withstand high temperatures (up to +100 C), so you can drink hot tea or coffee.

You cannot drink alcohol from polypropylene, because formaldehyde and phenol are released. These substances accumulate in the body and destroy the liver and kidneys. There is visual impairment, disruption of work gastrointestinal tract(possible ulcer).

Experts also prohibit the use of such containers for storing fat. Upon contact with fat, the protective walls of the plastic are destroyed and formaldehyde and other toxic substances are released. It is prohibited to heat polypropylene products above 100 degrees.



5. Polystyrene (PS).

Manufacturers use this type of plastic to create egg containers and cups. Do not heat polystyrene cookware because it releases dangerous toxic substances. It is highly not recommended to store hot food.

The advantage of polystyrene is its resistance to cold, which makes it suitable for cold food.

If handled incorrectly, it may release a carcinogen - styrene. Human reproductive function suffers. You cannot drink alcohol or hot tea from such containers. The dishes are intended exclusively for cold food. It is advisable to minimize the use of this type of plastic in your everyday life.

6. Mixture of different plastics (OTHER) .

A mixture of various plastics or polymers not listed above. Packaging marked with this number cannot be recycled and has reached its end of life. life cycle in a landfill.

Many manufacturers use combinations of different plastics. Used for making baby bottles and water bottles.

A very common component is polycarbonate. When dishes are handled incorrectly (very long-term use), polycarbonate releases a toxic element - bisphenol A. Bisphenol A disrupts physiological processes in the body, metabolism is disrupted, and hormonal imbalance occurs. It is not recommended to use plastic utensils marked OTHER.

We got acquainted with the main types of materials that are used to create plastic utensils, and learned what danger they pose. Unfortunately, nowadays it is almost impossible to do without plastic utensils. Therefore, it is necessary to minimize the harm from their use. Experts recommend the following:

TIPS FOR USING PLASTIC TABLEWARE

1. It is necessary to strictly use plastic utensils for their intended purpose.
2. Do not pour hot water into plastic containers.
3. Do not purchase dishes if you see that they were made a year ago (the longer they are stored, the more chemicals you will get).
4. It is advisable for the child to use only glassware.
5. Avoid plastic bottles when feeding your baby (it’s better to buy a glass bottle).
6. Do not store food in plastic containers.
7. Buy water in glass containers at the store.
8. Disposable containers are strictly prohibited from being reused.
9. Do not store food in plastic bags in the refrigerator.