Marking on plastic utensils and containers. Helpful information

Many families have plastic dishes in everyday life: salad bowls, plates, mugs, etc. are very convenient to use, easy to clean and do not break. But few of us think about the safety of such a comfortable type of dishes and containers in the kitchen as plastic. But they are in contact with the products that are eaten. Housewives always read the composition of products, but very rarely pay attention to the composition and quality of packaging and containers for storing food and drinks.

In this article, we will try to figure out whether food-grade plastic is harmful and whether dishes made from this material pose a health hazard.

Types of plastic

Plastic is a material made on the basis of synthetic or natural macromolecular compounds and is characterized by a wide range of applications. The most common types of plastic are:

• PVC,
• polyethylene,
• polypropylene,
• polystyrene
• polycarbonate.

All polymers are obtained by polymerization - i.e. "crosslinking" of short molecules of a substance into longer chains. Upon heating, damage, aging, contact with other substances, these chains break and monomers of the main substance enter the air or food.

How long can plastic utensils be used

Absolutely all types of plastics are subject to destruction when:

• aging (they break down, releasing decay products)
• damage (cracks, scratches)
• heating to critical temperatures (see below)
• exposure to alkaline detergents
• contact with alcohols
• contact with fats.

Reusable plastic products for food can be used for their intended purpose no more than 1 year(provided that their integrity is maintained - without cracks and scratches). Disposable tableware should not be stored with food for more than 3-4 hours after packaging, the more used the second time.

How to determine that plastic is aging? It becomes cloudy, absorbs odors, is poorly washed, unpleasant to the touch. These products can no longer be used. Even if there are only a couple of scratches on the plastic, it is no longer suitable for food purposes.

Harm of plastic

Polymers are inert by nature and non-toxic, which is why they are used for the production of dishes - they do not get into food products. But!!!

• By itself, pure plastic is brittle and unstable to high and low temperatures. And in order to give it proper properties, stabilizers are added: the plastic becomes stronger, but also more toxic.
• Solvents, technological additives and intermediate substances of production and products of chemical decomposition of the polymer, under certain conditions, enter food and have a toxic effect on the body.

Depending on the type of plastic (see table below), certain toxic substances may be released:

• Formaldehyde has a carcinogenic, mutagenic and allergenic effect, negatively affects the reproductive system, affects internal organs and the central nervous system (see).
• Phthalates - increase systolic pressure, lead to infertility.
• Methanol is the most dangerous poison, affects the organs of vision and the central nervous system, causes chronic intoxication.
• Vinyl chloride is a neurotropic poison with carcinogenic, mutagenic and teratogenic effects.
• Styrene is a dangerous carcinogen. Renders Negative influence on the reproductive system, affects the central and peripheral nervous system, violates the metabolism and work of the hematopoietic system.
• Bisphenol A - accumulates in the body, causing irreversible changes in the reproductive system, increases the risk of type 2 diabetes, as well as the likelihood of oncology. Causes various complications of pregnancy.
• Vinyl chloride - is released during the aging process from a polyvinyl chloride bottle, refers to neurotropic poisons and carcinogens, mutagens and teratogens. When ingested, it turns into chlorepoxyethylene and can provoke the development of cancer of the lungs, brain, liver, lymphatic and hematopoietic systems. The longer the drink bottle is stored (and often this period is 12 months), the more PVC will be in the contents, and the beginning of this migration begins as early as a week after the bottle is filled at the factory.

No protective layer disposable plastic, however, as in reusable, no - this is a myth that is designed to console our minds. Just a scratch on the dishes can already cause the plastic components to migrate into the food.

Cons of recycled plastic

Another negative moment- Spread recycling of plastics. In this regard, it is not always possible to identify the composition of the material and the release from it. Therefore, it is so important when buying plastic packaging or products in it to pay attention to the inscription on the bottom - this required attribute certified products. However, not all manufacturers label the goods as expected, and not all goods on the shelves of Russia are certified. What else creates big problem for the consumer when choosing plastic products.

Some research by scientists on the dangers of plastic

Russian scientists say that certified plastic utensils are absolutely safe, but only if used correctly and replaced in a timely manner.

American researchers claim that the presence of about 80% of "plastic" substances in the human body is the result of the use of building and finishing materials made of plastic, as well as its use in everyday life, and most of all - in dishes.

Substance diethylhexyl phthalate, which is used to soften plastics, is associated with an increased risk of:

• the development of obesity
• cardiovascular disease,
• and infertility in boys.

For example, obese children elevated level this substance in the blood. Despite the fact that in the last decade the impact of diethylhexylphthalate on the body of expectant mothers has decreased by about 50%, these risks still exist.

Phthalates:

• They lead to an increase in systolic pressure: after a survey of more than 3,000 children who were constantly in contact with plastic products, an increase in the level of phthalates in the urine by 3 times and an increase in blood pressure were found.
• During their study, the team looked at data from nearly 800 women and their children. It has been confirmed that if the mother's body was exposed to phthalates during the first trimester of pregnancy, born boys had a higher risk of infertility. Boys may be born with a shorter anogenital distance, which is directly related to infertility and poor quality spermatozoa.
• There is no safe level of exposure to phthalates for pregnant women. In order to completely eliminate this substance, one should not only refuse to use plastic dishes in everyday life, but also avoid eating products packed in plastic packaging.
• Phthalates will still surround a person - they are in wallpaper, personal care products, medical devices and almost everywhere, but in this form they are less dangerous.

Bisphenol A:

• In 2015, scientists from the Saudi Arabian Science Campus conducted a study that proved the harmful effects of bisphenol A on the liver of experimental rats and their offspring. The work focuses on the fact that the presence of bisphenol A in the body can cause genetic damage to DNA.
• Bisphenol A scientists attributed to the "multi-stage" carcinogen, which accumulates in the body and has a negative effect both in the body and in offspring. Empirically, the danger of certain concentrations of a substance was clarified. It turned out that even very low concentrations can lead to harmful effects on the health of a person and his children (see).
• Studies that were carried out at several foreign institutes with the participation of the US Environmental Protection Agency showed that out of 204 experimental samples of food products (canned food), 73% of them contained the presence of bisphenol A (released from the resins that cover the inner layer metal cans). On the this moment alternative coatings are being developed that could replace epoxy resins. But in any case, glass is considered the most environmentally friendly container for conservation.
• Australian scientists conducted an experiment - examined the urine of volunteers, including pregnant women and children who drink bottled water (which is sold in large bottles). Bisphenol A was found in 95% of them. Yes, under normal conditions, plastic does not release chemical elements into the water, but if the water is heated even a few degrees higher room temperature, "migration" of chemistry from plastic to water begins.

Tritan bottles

Tritan is a heat-resistant transparent polymer developed by the American company Eastman in 2007. Billed as a "healthy, ultra-safe" plastic. Literally immediately after the presentation, a line of baby bottles was released from tritan, which quickly spread throughout the world. Currently, tritan is used by many American companies for the manufacture of industrial products, utensils, including 19-liter bottles for water. The material is in high demand in third world countries, where consumers care more about the price of goods than about their own safety.

Eastman was founded by Dr. Andrew Weil, who promotes alternative medicine, including urine therapy. In 2014, chemicals used to manufacture plastics leaked from the facility, polluting water in West Virginia and depriving 300,000 people of drinking water for a month.

The popularity of tritan abroad is more likely due to the lack of alternatives than the sound safety of plastic. Consumers categorically refused to use polycarbonate bottles that emit Bisphenol A, and in the PET container market, demand exceeds supply by 3 times. Companies are forced to buy expensive materials suitable for bottle blowing. Tritan is not seen as a competitor to PET in the US, and companies with access to PET are buying it. Tritan is used only by companies that, due to lack of supply, are unable to purchase PET.

Eastman has repeatedly claimed to have thoroughly tested the safety of Tritan, but the methods used in the studies were not up to business standards. In 2008, Eastman partnered with Sciences International, a science company that lost a high-profile lawsuit. They conducted research for the tobacco industry and for 2 years misinformed consumers about side effects new types of cigarettes, which has caused several deaths.

Meanwhile, Tritan contains the synthetic estrogen triphenyl phosphate, or CHP, which is more harmful than Bisphenol A. But Eastman has not tested Tritan as single element, and divided it into several components. CHP was not included in the list of analyzed factors, although it is the most dangerous component of Tritan.

Eastman has done another study involving breast cancer cells, and already the first results were positive for estrogenic activity. The company's researcher released the results for synthetic estrogens as negative, although they were positive. This was told by Michael Denison, professor of toxicology at the University of California at Davis, who evaluated the Eastman Tritan safety report as an independent expert.

In parallel, PlastiPure was also researching tritan, also looking for a safer alternative to polycarbonate. As a result, it was found that tritan components are more dangerous to human health than Bisphenol A. Different types tritan (and as many as 5 of them are produced) emit harmful chemical substances under the influence of ultraviolet light.

In 2010, Eastman began marketing campaigns claiming that Tritan did not contain synthetic estrogens. In early 2010, Philips Avent, a leader in baby bottles and non-spill cups, wanted to see if they could do their own research on tritan, but for unknown reasons abandoned the idea. In the same year, Nestlé investigated tritan and found extremely harmful leached synthetic estrogen in it, but, in agreement with the manufacturer, did not publish these results.

Today, Eastman is pursuing litigation with independent labs that provide evidence of the dangers of tritan.

Characteristics of the main types of plastic

The table shows:

• Comparative characteristics of plastics used for food products, and the potential risks associated with their use - these data do not mean at all that all food in plastic and utensils made from it are deadly dangerous, but, unfortunately, harm is not excluded (the probability of which increases many times with improper use or recycling of disposable products) .
• Average softening temperature of plastic- this is the temperature at which the destruction of the polymer begins and the active release of toxic substances into food and air.
• The digital designation is in a triangle of arrows- it should be sought at the bottom.

Name	Designation, softening point	Where is used	What might stand out
Polyethylene terephthalate (PET, number 1) The most environmentally friendly polymer, but nevertheless, with secondary or not correct use can allocate harmful substances	from 245 C	Disposable "soft" bottles for water and drinks, oils, sauces, beer, disposable tableware	Phthalates and formaldehyde
Polyethylene of high (HDPE, number 2) and low density (LDPE, number 4) containing melamine-formaldehyde resins	Polyethylene high density from 80C low from 60 С	Packaging for dairy products, reusable tableware, baby bottles, food film, food bags	Formaldehyde and methanol, which are released during photoaging (with prolonged exposure to ultraviolet light)
Polyvinyl chloride (number 3, PVC)	from 75 C	Disposable bottles and caps for them, food film, containers, but more often - bottles for household chemicals	Vinyl chloride, formaldehyde, bisphenol A
Polypropylene (PP, number 5). Relatively safe and most common. There are high, medium and low pressure, only 1 type is allowed for food packaging.	from 140 С	Jars, containers and food containers, glasses can be colored. Reusable tableware.	Formaldehyde, especially in contact with fatty foods and alcohol
Polystyrene (PS, number 6)	from 90 C	Disposable cups, food packaging trays (similar to Styrofoam), jars for dairy products, forks, spoons, disposable knives, disposable containers	Styrene and formaldehyde
Polycarbonate (PC or PC)	from 220 С	Reusable and disposable bottles, including baby bottles, plastic tableware, plastic parts of pacifiers, the inner layer of metal cans for canned food	Bisphenol A
Melamine (Melsage, Melamine, M). Prohibited for the food industry!	Melamine melts at 350 C.	Dishes that look very similar to porcelain	Formaldehyde
Mixtures of plastics (number 7). This includes polycarbonate, polyamide and other types of plastics.		Water bottles, packaging	Bisphenol A, formaldehyde and others, summing up the negative effect

ABS plastic and San plastic is harmful or not?

These types of plastic not used for food. SAN plastic is a styrene copolymer, the same as ABS plastic. It is a rigid, heat-resistant plastic of several classes, which is mainly used for industrial and domestic purposes, but not for products that come into contact with food and drinks. In the temperature range from -40 C to +80 C, both types of plastic do not change their properties and do not emit into environment chemical elements. In addition, they withstand short-term heating up to 105 C. But they cannot be used for food products.

Plastik San	ABS plastic
Acrylonitrile is a carcinogen. In case of acute action, it causes irritation of the eyes, upper respiratory tract, and adversely affects the reproductive system. The conditions under which these substances would be released from the plastic is a violation of the specified temperature range. styrene - see above	butadiene - a gas with an unpleasant odor that enters the body through the respiratory system, irritates the mucous membranes and has a narcotic effect. Causes chronic neurasthenia, dermatitis, diseases of the gastrointestinal tract and upper respiratory tract. styrene acrylonitrile.

Marking

Plastic, which is used for the production of utensils and products in contact with food (food grade plastic), is subject to certification and undergoes a mandatory examination for compliance with sanitary and hygienic standards.

Manufacturers food grade plastic are required to label their products appropriately. There is a generally accepted marking of plastic utensils - a fork and a glass. But the crossed-out fork and glass indicate that the product cannot be used for food products.

The product may indicate for which products it is intended (cold, hot, bulk, liquid), where it can be used (in microwave oven for freezing, etc.).

Some manufacturers sometimes indicate the temperature range of use.
Marking can be words or icons:
snowflake provides for freezing
wave oven - use in the microwave
dishes under the shower - the possibility of washing in dishwasher etc.

Plastic for hot food and microwave

Now there are effective ways polymerization and purification of plastic, which made it possible to bring out heat-resistant types of plastic. On the bottom of such containers is written "for hot products." Such containers are filled with devices for preparing hot drinks, it is often used in public catering.

Plastic labeled "for hot food" and for "microwave oven" are different products:

• Only those containers can be used in the microwave oven, which are marked with a “wave oven” icon or signed “for a microwave oven”.
• Hot food labeling- this means you can drink hot tea or eat hot soup but do not cook and reheat in the microwave.

With repeated use of dishes for hot food, an “aging effect” occurs: under the influence of oxygen and heat, long polymer molecules break up into short pieces, which end up in food.

Separately about plastic bottles

A plastic bottle (from soft drinks, dairy products) is a very practical and convenient container, which, as a rule, turns from disposable into reusable in everyday life. It especially often happens that caring mothers pour compote, juice into a bottle of baby water with a convenient nozzle on the neck for drinking. are used repeatedly.

Plastic bottles are mainly made from polyethylene terephthalate, which:

transmits ultraviolet rays

passes oxygen

degrading content quality

and PVC- a polymer that is quite dangerous due to the release of vinyl chloride and bisphenol A.

Are there safe bottles that can be used multiple times?

Yes, these are refillable PET bottles, but nothing but water can be poured into them.

In addition, there is a “home” way to identify dangerous containers: you should press the bottle with your fingernail. If a white streak remains, the plastic may pose a health hazard.

How to use dishes and other plastic products so that they are safe for health

Plastic food utensils are unlikely to make it out of most people's daily routine. It is hygienic, inexpensive, lightweight and comfortable. To prevent harm to health, you should follow the safety rules:

If possible, give up plastic dishes altogether and replace them with ceramic, porcelain or glass ones, especially for children: the safest feeding bottles are made of glass. Yes, they are fragile, but today on sale you can find products in a special silicone sheath that will not break if accidentally dropped.

There is also an environmentally friendly disposable tableware made of cane, bamboo, eggshell, cardboard. It is only safe for health, but also does not litter the environment, but, naturally, is more expensive.

Summing up, we note: when a person develops an oncological disease, hardly anyone understands its causes, and all forces are directed to treatment. Of course, this is correct - every day in the fight against the disease is expensive. But it is important to understand that none of us is immune from cancer. So why increase the likelihood of its development and voluntarily introduce carcinogens into the body? Think about it and do not expose your life to unjustified risk!

Plastic or Plastic Organic material based on natural or synthetic high molecular weight compounds. The most popular in the use of plastic, made on the basis of synthetic polymers.

The most common polymeric materials (types of plastic):

• Polyvinyl chloride (PVC)
• Polypropylene
• Polyethylene
• Polystyrene
• Polycarbonate

They produce both technical and food plastics.

Plastics used for the production of food contact and children's products, in without fail undergoes an examination for compliance with sanitary and hygienic standards and is certified. The manufacturer is required to label his products. Food plastic has a generally accepted label - "glass and fork." It may say that it is intended for cold, bulk or hot products, for use in a microwave oven or for freezing, sometimes a temperature range is indicated.

For example, “Snowflakes” means that the container is suitable for freezing food, “wave oven” means that food can be heated in the microwave in the dishes, and “shower plates” indicate that the containers can be washed in the dishwasher. This marking is also used by some Russian manufacturers.

Harm

Harm of plastic

Plastic in its pure form is rather fragile, brittle material - it cracks in the light, melts from heat. For strength, stabilizers are added to it. This makes the plastic stronger, but also more toxic. Because of this, it appears damage to plastic utensils.

The polymers themselves are inert, non-toxic and do not "migrate" into food. But here are the intermediate substances, technological additives, solvents, as well as chemical decomposition products that can penetrate into food and have a toxic effect on humans. Under certain conditions, plastic releases toxic compounds that, when ingested, adversely affect human health.

This process can occur during storage of products or when they are heated. In addition, polymeric materials are subject to change (aging), as a result of which degradation products are released from them. And different kinds plastics become toxic various conditions- some cannot be heated, others cannot be washed, etc. Improper operation becomes main reason harm to plastic utensils.

American scientists claim that up to 80% of the "plastic" substances found in the human body get there from building and finishing materials, in particular, from such popular plastic windows, furniture, but most of all from dishes: all kinds of compounds pass from food plastic into products. nutrition. domestic producers, assure that certified plastic utensils are absolutely safe - if used for their intended purpose.

Benefit

Pros of plastic utensils

Compact, lightweight, hygienic, low cost, ease of operation allow you to use plastic utensils outside the home - on the road, in nature, etc. It does not require washing or cleaning. Therefore, the need for the use of plastic tableware is growing. Restaurants also use plastic utensils. fast food, summer cafes and snack bars.

Plastic food utensils: how to use

To plastic utensils did no harm health, it must be used strictly for its intended purpose. food grade plastic different brands has different properties. One brand of this polymer raw material is intended for the production of water bottles, the other is for bottles with carbonated drinks. Yogurt cups are made of plastic of a grade that makes it possible to produce a light and cheap container by casting, while being neutral with respect to milk fat, and pudding cups must resist sugar.

Experts insist: in no case should plastic packaging be used as food storage containers, and disposable tableware- many times. Disposable packaging should only be used once.

How plastic will react to contact with ingredients for which it was not intended, what compounds can be formed in this case, no one has investigated. Especially insidious are fats and acids, which can draw free toxic compounds out of plastic.

Foods high in sugar and fat should not be cooked in plastic containers. They are heated to the melting point and deformation of the plastic. It is necessary to cook them in special dishes that can withstand heating up to 140, 180 or more C.

When reusing disposable plastic tableware, its outer protective layer is damaged, and carcinogenic substances - formaldehydes, phenol, cadmium, lead - begin to be released.

Don't drink from disposables plastic cups alcohol. Any plastic contains toxic substances that do not dissolve in ordinary cold drinks, but do not withstand the chemical attack of alcohol.

The release of all kinds of compounds from plastic is greatly enhanced by heating. Therefore, only special containers designed for this purpose may be used in the microwave oven.

At home, immediately remove the packaging film from the products. cut off upper layer from products stored in plastic packaging.

Do not use disposable packaging for food storage. Store food in glass and ceramic dishes. Try to avoid plastic-packed products whenever possible, preferring loose ones.

Buy baby food only in glass or cardboard. Do not use plastic utensils for baby food. Do not microwave food in plastic containers.

Do not keep water in pitcher filters for a long time. In the morning and evening, replace the remaining water with fresh water. A cloudy plastic water jug ​​should be thrown away.

Also, the disposable packaging was not intended for washing, so the result can be unpredictable.

Any polymer material aging under the influence of light, heat, heating and contact with all kinds of substances. Then it becomes cloudy, absorbs odors and ingredients from the contents and releases toxic substances.

Food manufacturers indicate that the shelf life applies not only to the product itself, but also to the packaging. This is especially true for canned goods. For example, they can detect a toxic substance - biphenol.

Plastic film containing biphenol is lined on the inside of cans to keep the metal from coming into contact with food. From here, biphenol can pass into the contents.

It is advisable to replace canned food with fresh or frozen foods.

Transfer food from opened cans to glass containers, even if we are talking about short-term storage (under the influence of oxygen, the corrosion of cans increases dramatically and the content of lead and tin in food begins to increase rapidly).

Toxins can accumulate in the body for years, undermining health. Even small amounts are poisonous if exposed for a long time.

Buy food, plastic utensils and cling film only from reputable manufacturers and only in reliable stores.

To date, there are disposable tableware made from environmentally friendly clean materials- cane, bamboo, eggshell-based, as well as paper utensils made of cardboard.

ADDITIONALLY

Labeling of plastic utensils

To simplify the sorting of plastic, a special international marking has been developed - triangles formed by arrows with a number inside. The number indicating the type of plastic is located inside the triangle. Below the triangle is an alphabetic abbreviation indicating the type of plastic.

PET Polyethylene terphthalate: bottles for carbonated drinks, water, juices, dairy products, vegetable oils, cosmetics, etc.

Frozen ready meals in trays that can be reheated in the microwave or oven are made from crystallized polyethylene terphthalate. Its properties remain unchanged in the range from -40º to +250ºС. True, some brands may lose the necessary heat resistance after they have undergone deep cooling.

Buy drinks only in PET bottles and do not reuse them.

PP Polypropylene: medical products, bottle caps, hot dishes, food packaging film

Polypropylene utensils (PP marking) are safer. The polypropylene glass maintains temperature to +100 °C. From polypropylene glasses you can drink hot tea or coffee, in plates from it you can heat food in the microwave. But upon contact with strong drinks and alcohol, it releases formaldehyde or phenol. If you drink vodka from such a glass, not only the kidneys suffer, but also the eyesight. Formaldehyde is also considered a carcinogen.

PS Polystyrene: disposable tableware, cups for dairy products, yogurt, electrical insulation film

Polystyrene is indifferent to cold liquids. But when polystyrene dishes come into contact with hot water or alcohol, it begins to release a toxic compound (monomers) - styrenes. Hot foods are not recommended to be placed in polystyrene plates. Plates made of polystyrene are often used in summer cafes for barbecue. And along with hot meat and ketchup, the client also receives a dose of toxins - styrenes, which accumulate in the liver and kidneys.

Disposable cups can only be used for water. It is better not to drink acidic juices, soda, hot and strong drinks from them. Some coffee machines use polystyrene cups. That is, hot coffee or tea cannot be drunk from them.

Purchasing Products fast food(those that only need to be poured with boiling water), pay attention to the packaging (cup, bag, plate). Although Rospotrebnadzor and certification bodies monitor the safety of materials, nevertheless, manufacturers often use polystyrene packaging. Therefore, it is better to transfer products to ceramic or enameled dishes and then pour boiling water over them.

Refrigerate food before placing it in the container. For hot food and microwave use only special utensils.

If there is no marking on the plastic, you can distinguish PS from PP by touch - polystyrene crunches and breaks, and polypropylene crumples. Also the main distinguishing feature polystyrene bottle - bluish color of the container. And when pressing with a fingernail on PS plastic, a whitish scar (stripe) always remains, on PP plastic, the container will remain smooth.

HDP High density polyethylene: packaging bags, garbage bags

PVC Polyvinyl chloride : construction and Decoration Materials, furniture, shoes, medical products, water bottles, food packaging film

Synthetic poison dioxin can be released from PVC dishes in cases of heating food in microwave ovens, freezing water in freezers. Dioxins accumulate in human adipose tissue and are not excreted from the body for a very long time (up to 30 years). The released dioxin causes cancer (especially breast cancer).

LDP Low density polyethylene (low pressure): bottles for detergents and edible vegetable oils, toys, pipes, plastic bags.

Other types of plastic are multi-layer packaging or composite plastic.

Mayonnaise, ketchup and other sauces, seasonings, juices, jams, ready-made soups and cereals that require heating, sold in bags. Such bags are made from multilayer combined films. The choice of film depends on the properties of the product, the period and conditions of its storage. Soups, cereals, main courses are packed in bags of films with a high melting point. Dishes in such packaging can be heated in the microwave or boiled directly in the bag. Such dishes withstand temperatures from -40 to +230 ° C and more. But physiologists still advise eating them less often.

Dishes made of melamine (polymerized formaldehyde) - it is white, shiny (reminiscent of porcelain), weighs lighter, does not break. When tapped, melamine dishes emit not a sonorous, but a deaf echo.

It is extremely dangerous to use such dishes. For the durability of dishes, asbestos can be added to it, which is prohibited even in construction (such dishes come to Russia from Turkey, Jordan and China). It cannot be used for hot food. When hot water is poured into a melamine dish, the formaldehyde begins to dissolve in the water. Formaldehyde and asbestos can cause cancer. To keep the drawing on such a plate for a long time, paints containing heavy metals especially lead.

The use and application of plastic has become commonplace for modern society. Without noticing it, we can say that plastic objects have seriously invaded our lives. After all, every day we use plastic products in our everyday life. Plastic containers, dishes, bottles, bags, food storage containers - we use all this every day.

Now the production of five types of plastic is widespread. Polypropylene is considered the most popular type of plastic. This plastic causes minimal harm to health. But since polypropylene dishes are in constant contact with food and water, this can still adversely affect our health. Exist a large number of myths about polypropylene. This will need to be further explored.

Products made from polypropylene

Polypropylene plastic is obtained by heating and further compressing synthetic raw materials. Due to the high pressure, material can be obtained highest quality, which becomes the most durable and safest type of plastic. It is widely used in the production of plastic tableware, yogurt and processed cheese containers, semi-finished products, carbonated drinks and various other products.

The main advantage of polypropylene is resistance to heat and relatively high temperature. The maximum temperature that this plastic can withstand is 150 0 C. This simplifies our life, saves our time, since food can be heated in a microwave oven already in plastic dishes, without the need to use glass or ceramic dishes. In places of public catering, dishes made of polypropylene plastic are very widely used for hot coffee and tea, and of other products.

It is very important to know one thing that you should not use polypropylene cups for alcoholic beverages, since alcohol is released during contact with plastic formaldehyde, which is a poisonous substance. With continued use, a severe allergic reaction may occur.

It has already been scientifically established that plastic that is made at low pressure is dangerous to use items that come into contact with food.

The benefits of using polypropylene utensils

Products made of polypropylene have their own marking, which is indicated PP. Such plastic has three degrees of heat resistance - high, medium, low. This marking indicates that they are the safest when heated, they can be used for heating in microwave ovens. It can also be used in dishwashers. It is necessary to take into account the marking that is indicated on the bottom of the dish.

Therefore, on the shelves of the store, in catering places and at home, you can find products of this particular plastic. This material is also used to make lids for jars that we use in everyday life.

Positive characteristics of polypropylene products:

• Polypropylene belongs to environmentally friendly plastic, therefore its application is widely used in medicine.
• This dish has high hygienic properties saves us from the spread of many harmful diseases.
• It is also distinguished by high strength, for example, with a small impact or fall, it will not break.
• Plastic products are light weight.
• Does not corrode.
• Low cost.
• Does not absorb foreign odors.
• Disposable tableware made of polypropylene does not need to be washed and cleaned after eating, it is enough to dispose of it in a trash can.

These characteristics make this plastic very popular and practical. It can be found in every home. In order to only benefit from it, it is recommended to use it only strictly for its intended purpose, following the recommendations and temperature conditions.

Harm to humans from the use of polypropylene dishes

In addition to the benefits, polypropylene products can harm a person if they are used incorrectly or for other purposes. They have very few disadvantages when compared with other types of plastic, but they still exist. This must be taken into account.

Consider some of the disadvantages of polypropylene products:

• It is strictly forbidden to use in containers made of polypropylene alcoholic drinks, it is dangerous to human life and health. This can affect the kidneys and vision. It also affects the central nervous system.
• Disposable plastic tableware is designed for single use.
• It is not recommended to buy polypropylene products from unknown manufacturers, without marking the type of plastic.
• Avoid contact with fire.
• Long-term storage of products in a plastic container is not recommended.

These were the disadvantages of using plastic utensils. In general, she has good positive traits. When used correctly, it is completely safe.

Recommendations that will only benefit from the use of plastic utensils

Products made of polypropylene are considered safe. Therefore, they are in great demand.

1. It is not recommended to use disposable tableware repeatedly.
2. Food containers made of polypropylene, must be replaced with new ones after about 5-6 months from the moment of use.
3. Do not store food in a polypropylene container for a long time, then it will not be dangerous.
4. Pay attention to the quality of products when buying.
5. Very often, unscrupulous manufacturers use non-food plastic containers in their production, so you should always pay attention to the labeling.
6. When bad smell on products, they must be discarded.
7. Things made of polypropylene must be disposed of as household waste, which goes to waste processing plants. Since this plastic decomposes in the soil for a very long time, and when it is burned, it begins to release dangerous toxic substances.

Domestic scientists claim that certified polypropylene tableware is safe, but only if it is used for its intended purpose, observing the terms and rules of storage. If someone is still worried about their health, then there is always an alternative. You can use dishes made of paper, bamboo.

It makes no sense to write about the fact that many people use plastic utensils - this is a well-known fact. Especially often we use it in nature. It's really very convenient. Although one of my friends regularly uses such dishes for the holidays, when many guests come to her house. I repeatedly told her that it is not very beautiful, firstly, and, secondly, it can still be harmful. But she does not like to wash mountains of dishes after the holidays, and she often arranges the holidays themselves. And by the way, none of the guests have such dishes on festive table does not bother (well, or they are delicately silent about it).

In addition to use in nature, some housewives and at home use plastic products: salad bowls, glasses, food storage containers, etc. And it became interesting to me: is plastic utensils harmful or could it be better to refuse them? Is it harmful to health or is it just another "horror stories"? Let's figure it out.

What is plastic?

Plastic is a material made from macromolecular compounds, obtained by "crosslinking" synthetic or natural short molecules of a substance into longer chains. When damaged, in contact with other substances, heated or aged, these chains break, and the monomers of the main substance enter our food or air. The most famous and commonly used types of plastic are polyethylene, polyvinyl chloride, polystyrene, polypropylene and polycarbonate.

Any of the listed types of plastic deteriorates in the following cases:

• During aging (it breaks down and releases decay products).
• With various damages (cracks and scratches).
• From heating.
• When exposed to alkaline substances.
• From contact with alcohol-containing liquids.
• From contact with fats.

Reusable plastic food products are recommended to be used for no more than a year. And that's assuming there's not a single scratch on them.. Otherwise, throw it in the trash without regret. Disposable tableware should be used once and no more than four hours.

Never Do not reuse disposable tableware!

How to understand that plastic is aging and not suitable for further use? Very simple. Plastic becomes cloudy and poorly laundered, unpleasant to the touch, retains food odors or exudes some of its own. If you notice at least one small scratch on the plastic, throw it away! It is no longer suitable for use in the kitchen!

About the dangers of plastic and its components

By itself, plastic is not harmful and non-toxic, which is why it is used for the production of dishes. But pure plastic is a fragile thing and unstable to impact. different temperatures. Therefore, some stabilizers are added to it to make it stronger. Unfortunately, along with durability, plastic becomes toxic.

The various solvents and additives used in the manufacture of plastic tableware, which enter food under certain conditions (see above), release toxic substances that are extremely negative impact on our body.

The most common of them:

• Formaldehyde - negatively affects the central nervous system (CNS), reproductive function, affects internal organs, provokes the appearance of allergies.
• Phthalates - lead to infertility.
• methanol - the real poison. It affects the central nervous system, organs of vision, causes chronic intoxication.
• Styrene - has a very strong effect on the central nervous system, disrupts metabolism, provokes malfunctions in the hematopoietic system, and has an extremely negative effect on blood vessels.
• Bisphenol A - gradually accumulates in the body, causes irreversible changes reproductive system and complications of pregnancy, increases the risk of disease diabetes and oncological diseases.
• Vinyl chloride - poison, carcinogen, mutagen. It provokes the development of cancer of the brain, liver, lungs, lymphatic system. And the longer the drink is stored in a plastic bottle, the more polyvinyl chloride it contains. A week after filling the bottle, the drink becomes harmful.

There is a myth that disposable and reusable plastic is covered with a special protective layer. Nothing like this! This is just a myth. There is no protective layer on such dishes. This fairy tale was invented by manufacturers of plastic dishes to reassure us consumers. A small scratch on such dishes can (and will) cause poisonous substances to enter food, and then into our body..

Another problem is the recycling of plastics. As a result of such processing, it is generally impossible to understand the composition of the material. Manufacturers must label and indicate on the bottom of the product what plastic the dishes are made of, but, unfortunately, not everyone does this. And you and I simply do not have the opportunity to understand and determine what we are holding in our hands, how safe it is.

The generally accepted labeling of dishes in which food can be stored is a fork and a glass. If the fork and glass are crossed out, then this product is strictly forbidden to be used for food products.

In addition, the dishes should indicate for which products it can be used: cold or hot, bulk or liquid, for freezing, for microwaves, and so on.

Important! Plastic utensils labeled "microwavable" and "hot food" are completely different ways use. In the microwave, you can only use dishes that have an icon: a wave oven or it says "for a microwave oven." The marking “for hot products” indicates that you can drink and eat hot from this dish, but in no case cook or heat it up in this dish. Remember that with frequent use of dishes for hot products, the “aging effect” begins and it is advisable not to use such dishes repeatedly.

Russian scientists have conducted a number of studies and claim that plastic utensils are absolutely safe, but only with proper use and timely replacement .

Separately about plastic bottles

There is no doubt that a plastic bottle is very convenient and practical. Unlike glass, it will never break. And very often a disposable bottle turns into a reusable one. This is especially true of bottles with easy-to-drink necks that mothers use to drink their young children. The danger is that almost all plastic bottles are made of polyethylene terephthalate, which is practically unstable to shock loads, transmits ultraviolet and oxygen well, significantly worsening the quality of the drink, and polyvinyl chloride, the dangers of which have already been mentioned above.

You will say that these bottles are refillable with special labels. Yes you are right. But nothing but water can be poured into them. . And mothers pour everything into them: juices, compotes, kissels, even dairy products.

There is a great way to test the safety of a container: press the bottle with your fingernail and look at the result. If a white strip remains on the plastic, then it is better to throw away such a bottle - it may well harm your health.

How to safely use plastic utensils?

No matter how much they scare us, it is unlikely that we will refuse to use plastic utensils. Because it is inexpensive, convenient and hygienic.

In order not to harm your health, using such dishes, it is enough to follow some important and simple rules:

• Always use utensils as labeled.
• Do not use regular plastic utensils in the microwave.
• Do not use disposable plastic packaging to store or freeze food.
• Always use disposable tableware - once!
• Always crumple disposable utensils after use (especially in food service areas).
• Never cook foods high in sugar, fat or acids in plastic containers (even if the label says so).
• Do not drink alcoholic beverages from plastic cups.
• When you come home from the store, remove the packaging film from the products.
• Try to buy baby food in glass or cardboard containers.
• Buy plastic baby bottles only with the “BPA-free” badge, and it’s more correct to completely abandon plastic in baby dishes.
• Do not allow water to stagnate in a jug with a cleaning filter, change the water in it regularly. If the jug is cloudy, throw it away without hesitation.
• Do not wash reusable plastic utensils with brushes or hard brushes, do not use scouring powder.
• Never burn empty plastic bottles or other plastic products in a fire, stove or fireplace (used plastic is best thrown into a special container).

Summarize

Of course, it is best to refuse plastic utensils. But we are well aware that in practice this is very problematic. Well, you won’t go to nature with porcelain or ceramic plates, right? Much more convenient and practical plastic. Although we are in recent times more and more often we buy disposable cardboard plates and glasses, leaving for nature. Forks and spoons remain plastic, as there is no other alternative yet.

Plastic has firmly taken its place in our kitchens., on the shelves of which appeared various plastic bowls, storage containers, baking dishes, plates and cups. We drink, eat, store food in it, heat food in the microwave in it. Nowadays, in some European countries, up to 70% of residents eat at home from disposable dishes.

High popularity of plastic utensils due to the fact that it is convenient, light and cheap, and if it is disposable, then it does not need to be washed.

Signs on plastic utensils

For sorting plastic, an international marking was developed, a triangle formed by arrows with a number inside. Under the triangle, together with or instead of a number, an alphabetic plastic code can be indicated. Plastic packaging is divided into 7 types.

Polyethylene terephthalate PET(E) or PET used for the production of disposable bottles for:

• water,
• soda and beer,
• cosmetic products,
• dairy products,
• vegetable oils.

Completely prohibited reuse may release phthalates.

Polyethylene high pressure PEHD (HDPE) or LDPE used for production:

• packaging bags,
• garbage bags,
• milk packaging.

May release carcinogenic formaldehyde.

Polyvinyl chloride V, PVC or PVC used for production:

• finishing and building materials,
• shoes,
• furniture,
• water bottles,
• medical products,
• films for wrapping products.

This plastic is virtually non-recyclable. May release phthalates, heavy metals, and vinyl chloride in contact with fatty or hot foods.

Low pressure polyethylene PELD (LDPE) or HDPE used for production:

• detergent bottles,
• pipes,
• toys,
• packages and films for wrapping products.

May release formaldehyde.

Polypropylene PP or PP used for production:

• glasses and jars,
• medical products,
• hot dishes,
• food packaging film
• food containers.

May release formaldehyde

Polystyrene PS or PS used for production:

• cups for hot drinks (similar to Styrofoam),
• trays for products (similar to foam),
• cups for dairy products,
• electrical insulating film
• food containers,
• forks and spoons.

May release the chemical estrogen and the carcinogen styrene.

Polycarbonate and other plastics O, OTHER or OTHER, used for the production of:

• baby bottles,
• multilayer packaging,
• composite plastic,
• reusable water bottles.

May release bisphenol A.

Harm of plastic utensils

Studies have shown that plastics can be hazardous to health. Harmful substances from plastic begin to get into food even at the slightest heat, and often at room temperature.

Polyethylene terephthalate (PET)

Disposable cups and plates for fast food establishments are made from polyethylene terephthalate (PET). It must not be used in the microwave or filled with hot food. PET utensils have a shelf life - one year, after which harmful substances may begin to be released, as a result of which it is impossible to stock such utensils for future use.

Polystyrene (PS) dishes also do not like high temperatures and are intended for cold food and drinks.

Polypropylene (PP)

Tableware made of polypropylene (PP), can withstand high temperatures so you can heat food in the microwave. A cup of hot tea can be held in your hand and will not be hot. The big disadvantage of this dish can be considered its lack of love for fats, when in contact with them, polypropylene breaks down and releases toxic substances.

Polycarbonate (PC)

Polycarbonate (PC) cookware is the safest and most practical. It looks like ceramic or chinaware. Polycarbonate tableware, does not break and does not oxidize. It is used to make storage containers and baking molds.

Silicone

Silicone cookware will cope with temperatures from -60 to +280 degrees. Molds for jelly and ice cupcakes are made from this material. Silicone cookware is soft, very slippery and non-stick, so it does not need to be lubricated before use.

Bisphenol A and phthalates

Polycarbonate baby bottles have replaced glass ones. But not everyone knows that bisphenol A (BPA), which is used in the production of polycarbonate, can come from polycarbonate in liquids.

BPA is very similar in effect to female sex hormones, interfering with normal hormones and promoting obesity, breast cancer, heart disease and diabetes. In particular, it is dangerous for the development of the boy's reproductive system when he is in his mother's stomach.

The US has even banned the use of baby bottles that use BPA.

Three years ago, Canadian scientists issued the first warnings about the dangers of VRA. They proved that the substance used in the manufacture of plastic dishes leads to modifications in the brain and exposes the body to the risk of breast or prostate cancer.

Phthalates should also be added to the list of toxic substances that can pass into fats from plastic dishes. They give plastics elasticity. Phthalates are just as toxic as bisphenol. They are in the films in which sausage, cheese and other products are packaged.

Safe use of plastic utensils

Having brought products from the store, they must be immediately transferred from the packaging to glass, metal or ceramic dishes.

If you use plastic dishes at home, then only for cold food and water, since when preparing coffee or soups, the water heats up to 100 ° C. And according to GOST, the dishes are tested at temperatures up to 75 ° C, which means that the tests are softer real circumstances in the kitchen.

For cooking and for hot food, only burnt dishes can be used in which the surface has been glazed, and due to this it has become inert to food. Stainless steel and glass behave in the same way.

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