The use of food wrapping film in this manner can potentially disrupt hormone levels and cause infertility.

Many people have developed a habit of wrapping leftover food in plastic wrap and putting it in the refrigerator. However, using it incorrectly can be extremely harmful.

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Food wraps are considered a necessary item in every kitchen. However, they are usually made of plastic material. Have you ever thought that using them improperly can release plasticizers and other harmful substances? There are many concerns about food wraps, and the question is, how to use them safely?

In today’s busy life, people often put food in the microwave to heat it up quickly and eat it directly. Some even use food wraps to cover the food container. In the market, the commonly used materials for food wraps are classified into 4 types, each with a different heat resistance:

– Polyethylene (PE): Heat resistance temperature of 70-90 degrees Celsius.

– Polyvinyl chloride (PVC): Heat resistance temperature of 60-80 degrees Celsius.

– Polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC): Heat resistance temperature of 110 degrees Celsius.

– Polymethylpentene (PMP): Heat resistance temperature of 140-160 degrees Celsius.

Can food wraps be safely used to store hot food since they can withstand heat? The answer is: No! The heat resistance temperature can only be used as a reference, and whether the plasticizers dissolve from the plastic wrap depends on the actual situation.

Taiwanese toxicologist Chiu Ming-wei has mentioned that most of the commonly used plastic wraps nowadays are made of PVC. Many studies have also indicated that PVC plastic wraps will release plasticizers at high temperatures. While plasticizers are not very toxic and do not cause cancer, they can still be dangerous. Excessive exposure to plasticizers can not only hinder the development of male organs but also lead to endocrine disorders, infertility in women, and delayed neurological development.

Therefore, since July 2023, Taiwan has banned the use of PVC in food packaging materials. Hence, never heat food while it is still wrapped in plastic wrap! However, Chiu Ming-wei also noted that except for PVC, not all types of food wraps contain plasticizers.

4 Safe Tips for Using Food Wraps

1. Avoid contact with soup or fatty foods

As plasticizers can easily seep out when in contact with oil, food wraps should be kept away from soups and fatty foods to reduce the risk of contamination.

2. Avoid contact with hot food

Whether made of PVC or not, food wraps are always made of plastic. Therefore, they should be kept away from hot food and should not be used for cooking.

3. Avoid highly acidic foods

Highly acidic foods can corrode plastic and increase the risk of plasticizers leaking.

4. Avoid direct contact with food

It is recommended to place the food deeper into the container and use the food wrap to cover only the surface of the container without direct contact with the food.

Source: Phụ nữ mới

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Frequently asked questions

The plastic in food wrapping film contains chemicals that can leach into food, particularly when heated. These chemicals, such as Bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates, are known endocrine disruptors, which means they can interfere with the body’s hormones. Prolonged exposure to these chemicals can lead to a range of health issues, including infertility.

There are several alternatives to plastic food wrapping film that are safer for both health and the environment. These include wax paper, aluminum foil, reusable silicone bags, and cloth wraps. While some plastic wraps are marked as ‘BPA-free’, they may still contain other harmful chemicals, so it’s best to opt for these alternative materials whenever possible.

Endocrine disruptors, like BPA and phthalates, can mimic or block hormones in our body, interfering with their normal functions. This can lead to a range of health issues, including reproductive problems, metabolic disorders, and even certain types of cancer. The effects can be particularly detrimental during critical periods of development, such as infancy, puberty, and pregnancy.

Yes, there have been growing concerns and efforts to regulate the use of endocrine disruptors. For example, the European Union’s REACH regulation has restricted the use of certain phthalates, and BPA has been banned from baby bottles in many countries. However, these chemicals are still prevalent in many consumer products, which is why it’s important for consumers to be aware and make informed choices to minimize their exposure.

To reduce your exposure, opt for alternative food storage methods mentioned above, such as wax paper, aluminum foil, or reusable containers. When using plastic wrap, avoid heating food with the plastic directly touching the food. Also, look for products that are marked as ‘BPA-free’ and avoid recycling codes 3 (phthalates) and 7 (BPA and other chemicals). Washing plastics by hand, instead of the dishwasher, can also help reduce leaching.

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