Tips

“Mitigating the Impact of Plastic Bags and Containers When Ordering Takeout During a Pandemic”

The surge in takeaway food orders during the pandemic has prompted us to share some tips on how to mitigate the potential health risks associated with this convenient dining option. We understand the allure of a quick and easy meal, but it's important to be mindful of the impact on your wellbeing. So, let's dive into some simple ways to make your takeaway habit a little healthier!

Administrator

21 July, 2024

With the unpredictable progression of the pandemic, coupled with the closure of restaurants and the necessity for people to stay indoors unless absolutely essential, there has been a significant rise in the trend of ordering takeout.

This is understandable, but if you don’t pay attention to how your food is packaged and stored, it can pose serious health risks to you and your family. Let’s explore this issue and find a solution together in this article.

1. The Dangers of Takeout Containers

Most takeout food is packaged in plastic bags, styrofoam boxes, and other convenient and inexpensive materials. However, these materials can be harmful to consumers’ health.

According to PGS. TS Nguyen Duy Thinh, former lecturer at the Institute of Biotechnology and Food Technology, Hanoi University of Technology: “Most plastic products, especially styrofoam boxes, contain Styrene – a chemical that has been identified by the International Agency for Research on Cancer as potentially damaging to the brain, liver, endocrine system, and can cause infertility and cancer.”

It is important to note that these containers should not be used for hot food. However, in reality, they are often used to hold very hot food. This causes the plastic chemicals to dissolve and contaminate the food. When consumed, it can harm the liver and increase the risk of early puberty in children, among other potential health issues.

2. Guidelines for Safe Takeout

Avoid keeping hot food in plastic bags or styrofoam boxes for too long

If you must order hot food like soup, noodles, or fried dishes, it is best to transfer the food to a bowl as soon as you receive it and consume it as soon as possible.

Leaving hot food in these containers for extended periods will allow more toxins to leach into the food, increasing the health risks.

Alternatively, if you’re not going to eat it right away, transfer it to a separate pot so that it’s easier to reheat, or use any other high-quality, heat-resistant container.

Opt for cold takeout options

It is recommended to choose cold food options when eating out. This reduces the impact of high temperatures on the packaging and minimizes the risk of toxins leaching into the food. However, you should still avoid keeping food in low-quality packaging for extended periods, be it hours or days.

Do not reuse containers that previously held hot food

Containers that have held takeout food should only be used once and then discarded. Reusing them can be harmful to your health. Make sure to dispose of them properly.

Use high-quality food storage containers from home

PGS. TS Nguyen Duy Thinh advises: “It is best to avoid the habit of using disposable plastic and styrofoam containers. Instead, if possible, bring your own high-quality containers from home when buying takeout. This ensures safety and also helps reduce waste.”

We hope that this article has provided valuable information to help you safely enjoy your takeout meals and protect the health of your loved ones. Stay safe and healthy!

Frequently asked questions

The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a surge in single-use plastics, including plastic bags and containers used for takeout orders. While these items may provide a sense of safety and hygiene, they also contribute to environmental degradation. To mitigate this impact, we can follow these tips: reduce, reuse, and recycle. We can reduce our plastic consumption by opting for reusable bags and containers whenever possible. When reusing plastic bags, ensure they are cleaned and sanitized properly. Additionally, support restaurants that use eco-friendly packaging and practice proper waste segregation at home, disposing of plastics responsibly.

The pandemic has heightened the importance of hygiene and safety, leading to an increased reliance on single-use plastics. However, the environmental consequences of this surge in plastic waste are significant. Plastic pollution contributes to soil and water degradation, harms wildlife, and releases toxic chemicals. By addressing this issue and adopting more sustainable practices, we can protect both public health and the environment.

As consumers, we have the power to influence restaurants’ choices. We can advocate for eco-friendly packaging by providing feedback and expressing our preferences for sustainable options. Supporting and patronizing restaurants that use biodegradable or compostable packaging sends a strong message. Additionally, we can spread awareness and encourage others to join the movement, creating a collective push for environmentally conscious practices in the food industry.

Reusable alternatives include cloth bags, canvas totes, and biodegradable or compostable containers. Stainless steel or glass containers are also great options for storing and reheating food. These alternatives are durable, reducing the need for frequent replacements, and they minimize the environmental impact associated with single-use plastics.

To ensure proper sanitation of reusable bags, follow these steps: wash your hands before and after handling the bags, machine wash the bags regularly using laundry detergent, and allow them to air dry completely. You can also use disinfectant wipes or sprays specifically designed for sanitizing surfaces. By maintaining good hygiene practices, we can minimize the risk of virus transmission while promoting a more sustainable lifestyle.