Sheldon’s Corner: Glass vs. Plastic Containers
When preparing, storing, reheating, or freezing food, reusable containers can do the job. However, some food containers are safer than others when it comes to personal and environmental health. In most cases, you will probably use either plastic or glass containers. Here’s what you need to know about both.
CONSIDERING PLASTIC:
- Pay attention to the code. On the bottom of plastic food storage containers, you’ll find a tiny triangle with a number (resin identification code) in it, ranging from 1 to 7, indicating the type of plastic. In general, the safest choices for food use are numbers 1, 2, 4 and 5. That’s because number 3 is vinyl or polyvinyl chloride (PVC), 6 is polystyrene and 7 can be various plastics. Some plastic containers with the resin codes of 3 and 7 may contain Bisphenol-A (BPA).
- Avoid BPA plastics. BPA is a chemical used in manufacturing polycarbonate plastics and epoxy resins, including some food packaging. Since BPA can leach from plastic containers into foods and beverages, especially when the containers are heated, it may pose a potential risk to the environment and your health, notably your children’s health.
- Store in a cool place. Even though polycarbonate plastic is strong and long-lasting, it can break down over time from high temperatures and overuse. Never microwave foods in plastic food containers, including margarine tubs and restaurant carryout containers. Plastic containers from packaged microwavable meals shouldn’t be reused after their initial use; they’re safely designed for one-time-use only.
- Always Recycle! Not enough people are doing so. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), the U.S. only recycled about 14 percent of plastic containers and packaging in 2012. Nearly 12 million tons was disposed! This can contribute to greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, impacting the health of the environment.
USE GLASS:
- Glass is overall a safer bet for food storage than plastic. Glass can be safely used for hot foods or liquids. (Ceramic, stoneware or stainless steel containers can be safe bets, too.)
- You can reuse glass containers since they don’t pose harmful risks to environmental or personal health. They don’t leach potentially harmful chemicals when in contact with food.
Pick plastic food containers wisely and remember to look at the code on the bottom. Use them for cold food storage. They can be ideal for transporting food. Choose glass containers most often. Use them for cold or hot foods. They’re ideal for home food storage and reheating food. If you are ever confused between the two…just go with glass.