Is it safe to heat food in plastic?

by Nick
(Montreal)

This article from Goodhousekeeping.com is an oldie -- October 2008 - but a goodie.

It's important, because its observations include the results of testing plastic food containers and packaging which are commonly used when heating or reheating foods in the microwave.

The article, by Florence Williams, is several pages long and goes into considerable detail. In total, 31 containers, lids, bags, wraps, and liners were tested.

It is worth reading or re-reading this article simply because it broadens the debate well beyond the scope of current media interest in BPA, which is focusing a great deal on baby bottles and sippy cups.

Although an older article, it reminds us to take a broader look at all the different ways in which BPA and phthalates can enter our bodies.

After writing the article, here are the steps Florence Williams took in her own home.

“Since learning more about the health effects of plastics, including how much we don't know, I've changed some habits. Some of this is, admittedly, driven more by emotion than science. My kids haven't reached puberty yet, and I don't want them to any earlier than nature intended. I give them water in BPA-free bottles. When I buy cheese wrapped in plastic, I cut off the edges and toss them before eating or giving it to my children. I now store leftovers in ceramic or glass containers in the fridge, and I don't put anything plastic in the microwave because there's still a lot to learn about the interactions of heat and plastic — and it's easy to find an alternative. I also now buy phthalate-free shampoo and face cream.”

Read the full article here...