Plastic food storage containers are usually used in almost every kitchen. While plastic containers are not the best option, they are still popular because they are compatible with budget, light and help to organize your fridge better. But like everything else, they do not live forever. Over time, plastic can be shown down, smells can be absorbed, and even to be unsafe for food storage. Even if you love the old plastic container you bought for the first time ago, catching the worn-out containers can put your health at risk and affect the taste of your food. So, how do you know that it is time to discard these plastic containers? Let’s know.
Also read: Why should you ever throw food delivery boxes without doing this
Photo: Istock
Here are 5 signs that you should throw your plastic containers
1. They are torn
If your plastic container looks folded or out of size, there are visible cracks, or do not close properly, it’s time to say goodbye. Plastic container often turns or folded when it is repeatedly exposed to heat like a microwave. Cracks and bends also disturb bacteria, which makes it difficult to clean properly. In addition, a damaged food container may leak or fail to keep your food fresh, destroying the entire purpose of storage.
2. They have stubborn stains
Have you ever seen how the color and smell of previous food in some plastic containers? If your container smells permanently like curry or is an orange stain from spice-based dishes, it is a sign that plastic has absorbed food particles over time. While the stains cannot always mean that the container is insecure, the dull odor and dissolution means that the plastic is breaking.
3. The lid does not fit properly
A loose or missing lid destroys the entire purpose of a storage container. If the lid of your container is broken or folded or does not do as it is used, it will not make an airtight seal. This means that your food is likely to deteriorate quickly or can also spread to the fridge. Instead of using random lids in containers, try and invest in a new set that seals properly.
Photo: Istock
4. They are over 5 years of age
With frequent use and exposure to heat, plastic declines over time. Older containers can develop small scratches, making them a reproductive ground for bacteria. If your plastic food storage containers are more than five years old, it is best to inspect them for any wear and tears. Even if they look fine, it is the best option to switch to new containers.
5. They are not free
If your containers are made of old plastic that are not BPA-free, it is best to abandon them. BPA means for Bisphenol-A, which is found in some plastic that can leach in food, especially when heated. Many modern containers are declared BPA-free, which makes them safe for food storage. Check the recycling code on the bottom of the container where it may indicate whether the product is BPA-free or not!
Also read: How to clean plastic food containers using common kitchen ingredients
Please note: These suggestions are to avoid using bad plastic containers which are harmful to health. However, the pediatric environmental health characteristic unit according to the US, plastic consists of two chemicals – phthalates and bisphenol a (BPA), which help maintain the size of containers. These substances have been established as “endocrine disruptives”. Scientific evidence suggests that both these compounds affect the functioning of hormones such as estrogen and testosterone. Both are reproductive hormones and affect breeding health and also affect children’s growth and development.
