Polypropylene dishes: benefits and harms. Hygienic features of using disposable plastic tableware. Benefit and harm. Are plastic dishes harmful?

» The dangers of plastic utensils

Modern man surrounded by a huge number of things made of plastic - from dishes to furniture. And this is quite natural - after all, the variety of types of plastics provides a wide choice of certain useful consumer functions, which are sometimes superior to natural materials.

Why is the production of plastic tableware growing?

Plastics are increasingly used to make tableware, including reusable ones. Therefore, there have been, are and will be debates about the dangers of plastic tableware. In addition, new varieties of plastics and their combinations are constantly appearing on the market, and their reuse is expanding. Because it:

Firstly, it is very profitable, since profits exceed 100%.
Secondly, virtually waste-free production.
Thirdly, plastic dishes are beautiful, light and convenient.

Problems and dangers await consumers when using plastic cookware for hot dishes, which is determined by the specifics of its production.

Around the harm or benefit of plastic tableware big number myths supported by competing manufacturers. Let's try with materials scientists to understand the main types of safe plastic utensils and answer the question of whether plastic utensils are harmful.

Are plastic dishes harmful?

Plastics (polymers), unlike metal, glass or ceramics, are produced by the polymerization of molecules of substances called monomers. That is, from simple elements polymerize long chains that are stitched together. Hence the name “polymers”. For example, in polystyrene it is styrene, in polyethylene it is ethylene, etc.

Why do plastic dishes sometimes have an unpleasant odor?

When heated to softening temperature, these chains break and volatile monomers enter the air or food. You can feel the subtle sweetish smell of styrene by pouring boiling water into a disposable polystyrene cup (on the bottom PS)

Polyethylene is made from gaseous ethylene, and polystyrene is made from liquid styrene. However, during polymerization, some molecules do not reach the required length. These short oligomers are no longer inert, they are harmful to humans and can migrate into food from the walls of the dish. With outdated polymerization technology, if it is violated, the percentage of such defective molecules increases. This is how bad smell, for example, in electric kettles.

Why you can’t pour boiling water into polystyrene dishes

Plastics are quite inert - resistant to food acids and alkalis, but soften when heated, that is, the bonds between chains are weakened and can break down into individual molecules, which become volatile and pass into hot food. This determines the property of plastics to release volatile substances when heated, for example when you pour boiling water into a disposable polystyrene cup. The type of material determines at what temperature this process begins and how easily the bonds will break.

In addition, some of the catalysts and plasticizers used during polymerization, and these are salts of harmful heavy metals, remain inside the polymer and can also enter food when heated.

That is, dishes become harmful due to violations of technology and the wrong choice of plastic.

Are “disposable” tableware reusable?

Progress chemical industry led to the emergence effective ways polymerization and purification of the product, which made it possible to create heat-resistant types of plastics. Therefore, on the bottom is certified disposable tableware the inscriptions “for hot drinks” appeared.

When it is repeatedly used for hot food, the “aging effect” appears when, under the influence of atmospheric oxygen and heat, long molecules break up into short pieces that end up in food. Therefore, reusable plastic tableware is made from special polymers, and most often it is polypropylene.

Unfortunately, in our public catering, disposable tableware made of polystyrene or polyethylene is often tried to be reused, and it’s good if they at least wash it. Therefore, after eating, do not hesitate to crumple up the plate and glass and throw them in the trash.

In connection with the expansion of plastic recycling, another danger has emerged - the inability to identify the composition of the material and its emissions. Therefore, when purchasing products in plastic packaging, as well as tableware made from polymers, you should pay attention to the inscriptions on the bottom, which are a mandatory attribute of certified products. If they are not there, then it is better to refrain from purchasing.

Letters and numbers on the bottom of plastic dishes

Labeling of plastic utensils is intended for both consumers and plastic processors. It is intended to inform both consumers and recycling organizations. So, deciphering the letters and numbers on plastic utensils means the following brands of polymers.

Containers for sunflower oil, mineral water, soft drinks and beer are made from the relatively new material polyethylene terephthalate. It is a very inert plastic, but oil and alcohol are much stronger solvents for oligomers than water. Polyethylene terephthalate is designated by abbreviations PET or PETF and the number 1.

The requirements of large beverage manufacturers for the chemical purity of this material are very high, especially for the content of acetaldehyde, a toxic substance. Acetaldehyde is released from PET molecules when they are destroyed under the influence of heat and contamination of the material structure.

The most different containers, for example, yoghurt bottles, film and cold food storage bags. You cannot keep boiling water or hot food in it, and you cannot heat food in it in the microwave. The choice of cookware for the microwave oven has been written in detail.

PVC or polyvinyl chloride is used for packaging household chemicals, vegetable oils. In many countries, this plastic is prohibited for contact with food. And there are good reasons for this. To make PVC elastic, plasticizers (phthalates) are added to it, which can cause liver and kidney damage, infertility, and cancer. PVC may contain bisphenol A and heavy metals such as cadmium, chromium, mercury, lead, formaldehyde. Fortunately, it is a rather expensive polymer, so its use is declining.

If quite recently the most common materials were polystyrene and polyethylene, now they are confidently being replaced by polypropylene. It is more expensive than its predecessors, but is frost-resistant and holds high temperatures well.

Polypropylene tableware, including reusable ones, caps for drink bottles, basins and containers for storing food, as well as electric kettle bodies are highly durable and chemically inert. Therefore, it is polypropylene that is considered the safest for food use, and not polyethylene, as manufacturers like to say.

Polystyrene is also used in large quantities PS, which is very technologically advanced, durable and completely inert if it is not heated and not exposed to acids, alkalis and fats. You can feel the characteristic smell of poisonous styrene when you pour boiling water into a polystyrene cup, as the polymer chains are broken into monomers under the influence of high temperature. Therefore, it would be better if non-food products were made from polystyrene. His code is PS and the number 6.

The number 7 means OTHER or OTHER. A mixture of various plastics or polymers not listed above. Packaging marked with this number cannot be recycled and has reached the end of its life. life cycle in a landfill.

Labeling of plastic utensils for consumers is intended primarily to protect them. If you choose dishes based on the designation of plastic, choose PP or PE.

But some types of plastics not from the list above are prohibited from being used in contact with food, because when heated they release carcinogenic substances - phenol-formaldehyde. The handles of teapots and frying pans are most often made from them, and you can feel their characteristic smell when such handles overheat, especially on Chinese dishes.

It is impossible not to mention melamine dishes, which are generally contraindicated for use in contact with food, and especially with hot food. The bottom is most often written MELAMIN or the letter M, and the international digital marking doesn't even exist. And no matter what the sellers of this beautiful and light tableware made of “artificial porcelain” write in custom articles, poison is released from it. But this is a topic for another discussion.

Basic myths about the dangers of plastic tableware

Myth 1. Plastic dishes are harmful. To improve consumer properties, various technological additives are added to polymers - modifiers, plasticizers, coloring pigments that migrate into food.

Yes, additives are introduced, but in most cases it is not they that migrate, but the products of chemical or thermal degradation of the polymer.

Also, these volatile substances can be released due to technology violations, when during polymerization not all monomers are bound into molecules and remain in free form. That is why only food-grade plastic should be used for dishes. Therefore, the question of whether plastic utensils are harmful cannot be answered unambiguously.

Another option for producing plastic that is harmful to health is to cast products from recycled material, the composition of which is difficult to control.

Myth 2. Plastic disposable tableware contains protective layer, which becomes damaged when reused.

There is no layer there, and reuse is not recommended for hygienic reasons. Such dishes are difficult to wash without hot water and alkaline detergents, which destroy plastic.

Due to aging, that is, the destruction of molecular bonds, it is not recommended to use such utensils for a long time.

Myth 3. When food is packaged in film, it transfers into the food. harmful substances, so it is necessary to cut them off upper layer.

This wildness defies any logical explanation, unless the products were stored not in food grade, but in industrial polyethylene, made in most cases from recycled granules.

For safety, it is important to use plastic for its intended purpose. Some types of plastics are more susceptible to destruction (destruction) when heated, others - when exposed to alkaline detergents, and others - to alcohols and fats.

For example, the average softening temperature of polypropylene is 140 °C, and that of polystyrene is 90 °C. That is, at these temperatures, the destruction of the polymer begins.

The harm of plastic utensils is greatly exaggerated and manifests itself when Not correct use.

IN summer period Plastic utensils are gaining popularity. It is quite convenient to transport food in it. As a rule, such things are used on long trips and on picnics. The undoubted advantage of such dishes is their low cost. It's no secret that in most cases it is disposable. The quality of a dish can tell you a lot about its quality. After reading our article, you can easily determine what exactly the signs mean that are located on the bottom of a disposable plate or glass.

History of the creation of plastic tableware

Today, disposable plastic tableware is quite familiar to us. We use it as a lunch box or take it with us on a picnic. Does everyone know exactly when it appeared? You can find out this information in our article.

Plastic utensils were first discovered in the United States of America in 1910. The first to be created was a disposable glass, and then they began to produce forks, plates, spoons and other items known to us today. The first dishes were made of thick paper. It only gained popularity in 1950. And it was at this time that paper began to be replaced with another material, namely plastic.

Plastic dishes in the USSR. Nowadays

In the Soviet Union, such dishes began to appear only in 1960, but they were not popular until 1990. This was due to the lack of fast food establishments. It is worth paying attention to the fact that disposable paper tableware is now gaining popularity again. This is no coincidence, because quite often plastic products for food storage do not meet quality standards. Paper, in turn, is a safe and environmentally friendly material.

To purchase utensils that are harmless to health, you need to know what the markings on plastic utensils mean. You can find out this and much more in our article.

Plastic utensils have mass positive qualities. The very first thing consumers pay attention to is the low cost of such a product. It is convenient to transport and there is no need to wash. It is known that plastic dishes are quite durable, but only if there is no excessive load on them. As a rule, due to its positive qualities, it is used for picnics, parties, or simply taken with food to work or on a long trip. The labeling of plastic utensils for food products can tell a lot about its quality and recommendations for use. In order for disposable food containers to bring only benefits, you need to know how to use them correctly.

Today, many cafes and fast food restaurants use plastic disposable tableware because it is cheap, convenient and aesthetically pleasing. It is worth noting that containers for reusable use are also created from this material. Many housewives use them to store bulk substances. Is plastic harmful? You can find out this information in our article.

Harm and negative qualities of plastic and disposable tableware

Few people know, but if used incorrectly, any disposable container can cause irreversible harm to health. To prevent this from happening, you need to know what the labeling of plastic utensils means. The decoding of the markers is provided in our article.

Reusable and disposable tableware is harmful if it is used incorrectly. However, some doctors believe that it carries a certain danger under any circumstances. First of all, experts do not recommend reusing containers that are intended for one-time use. On the second application it releases a large number of substances hazardous to health.

It's no secret that plastic is a material obtained chemically. It is for this reason that when exposed to different products it can behave completely differently. For example, not every disposable glass can be used to drink warm tea. Marking of plastic utensils is great way find out how you can use this or that container.

Plastic is known to be difficult to degrade. This process takes more than ten years. Exactly because of this reason this material negatively affects our environment. To cope with this problem, factories are opening in many cities that process environmentally hazardous material. Unfortunately, there are quite a few such enterprises. It is for this reason that many fast food establishments prefer to use only paper utensils. It is more environmentally friendly and harmless.

Marking on plastic. Polystyrene dishes

In order not to harm your health, you need to know what the markings on plastic utensils mean. The decoding, which is described in our article, is remembered quite simply. This information will definitely be useful to you at a picnic or party, and will also help you maintain your health.

If there is a PS sign on plastic containers, you can be sure that such containers contain polystyrene. If used incorrectly, it is extremely dangerous to health. Plastic containers marked this way can only be used for storing refrigerated foods. The thing is that upon contact with hot food, containers with polystyrene release styrene, which accumulates in vital organs. Over time, this can cause the development of serious diseases. It is also highly recommended not to store alcoholic beverages in such containers or to heat food in the microwave.

Plastic utensils made of polypropylene

Does plastic marking exist and its decoding, which is described in our article, will allow you to find out.

There is an opinion that disposable tableware should never be used in the microwave. However, it is not. On some plastic containers you can find a sign with the number 5 and the symbols PP. This marking indicates that the cookware contains polypropylene. It is in such a container that you can heat food in the microwave and pour hot tea into it. Few people know, but polypropylene dishes do not deform when in contact with contents whose temperature is no more than 100 degrees Celsius.

The only thing that should never be stored in such a container is alcohol. If alcohol is poured into a polypropylene container, the plastic begins to release phenol, from the effects of which a person can completely lose his vision. A polypropylene container has a lot of positive qualities. It is known to be quite durable and retains heat well. Plastic utensils are extremely popular today. Labeling for the consumer is the main source of information that allows you to find out what a particular container is intended for.

What does the triangle of three arrows mean on plastic containers?

You know what the markings on plastic utensils look like. In addition to numbers and letters, there is a triangle sign on it, which consists of three arrows. Not everyone understands what it means. Such a closed cycle of arrows indicates that the used dishes are subject to further processing. As a rule, there is a number inside the triangle, and several letters below it. They can tell you about the material from which your chosen cookware is made.

Sign with cutlery

The labeling of plastic utensils is the first thing a consumer should pay attention to when purchasing. As we said earlier, if containers are used incorrectly, they can cause irreversible harm to health. Often on plastic utensils you can find a sign with the image of cutlery. This marker indicates that this container can be used to store food products. If such a sign is crossed out, then you can be sure that the product is not intended for use in the kitchen.

To protect yourself and your loved ones, you need to know and remember what the labeling of plastic utensils means. The decoding, which is described in our article, will allow you to find out what is included in a particular container.

If you go on a picnic with plastic utensils, then under no circumstances burn them after the picnic is over. When burned, disposable containers release substances hazardous to health. Experts strongly recommend not to eat in establishments that use plastic utensils. If you have no other choice, then be sure to pay attention to its quality. Labeling plastic utensils will allow you to find out whether they are used correctly in a particular establishment. A similar situation exists with Often, when there is a great desire to save money, they use cheaper glasses that are not intended for storing hot drinks.

As we said earlier, never reuse disposable tableware. This rule is not accidental, because in this case on the surface plastic container the top layer is destroyed and it begins to release life-threatening chemicals.

Gastroenterologists strongly discourage the use of plastic utensils. They emphasize that under any circumstances, some polymers still enter the human body. It is known that over time they accumulate and become causative agents of serious diseases. Experts strongly recommend not using disposable containers or at least paying attention to the recommendations for their use. Labeling plastic utensils will allow you to find out what a particular container is suitable for. Doctors recommend today that you stop using such kitchen items and use only disposable containers made of thick paper.

Let's sum it up

In the warm season, plastic dishes are especially popular. The marking of such containers is described in our article. We strongly recommend that you remember its decoding in order to maintain your health. Plastic dishes have a lot of positive qualities. It is cheap and compact. However, it also has several disadvantages. If used correctly, it will only bring you joy and will not ruin your picnic. Be healthy!

Polypropylene dishes: benefits and harms

Let's figure it out together: the harm and benefits of plastic tableware

Today we cannot imagine our life without plastic: disposable tableware, food containers, and bottles made from it are found in every home. But it destroys our health! A study on this topic was conducted by the program “Conspiracy Theory. Plastic and food: safety rules."

American scientists say: 80% of “plastic” substances found in the human body come there mostly from dishes. But if it says “food grade plastic”, it must be harmless! However, there are many nuances, and the main thing is that food plastic comes in different forms. How it can be used depends on what substances it contains. Unfortunately, this is not written on the labels, and, accordingly, this rule is rarely observed.

An irreplaceable thing at the dacha and especially at a barbecue picnic. In some fast food cafes, soups and main courses are served in plastic bowls and plates. But often such dishes are made from polystyrene (PS). When heated, it forms carcinogenic styrene, which accumulates in the liver and kidneys and can even lead to cirrhosis. Dishes marked PS can only be used for cold dishes! The only plastic that is suitable for hot food is polypropylene (PP).

Myths and truths about products

Alcohol is a solvent, so if you pour it into a plastic cup or glass, you get a solution of ethanol with stinol, phenol and formaldehyde. This leads to problems with vision, kidneys and reproduction. Tea and coffee can only be poured into glasses marked PP, but only when the drink has cooled down a little. Polypropylene can withstand temperatures no higher than 75 degrees.

More often they are made from PET plastic. Rospotrebnadzor advocates banning the sale of beer in PET bottles, since under the influence of alcohol, phthalates are released from plastic into the drink. They affect hormonal balance; in men they produce female hormones, sexual activity decreases, women develop endometriosis and infertility.

9 things in the house that indicate you're a slob

1. Ideally, avoid plastic altogether. Buy disposable paper tableware, glass containers for storing food, drinks in glass, and carry a reusable flask of water with you.

2. Pour only water into disposable plastic cups.

3. Do not reuse disposable tableware and PET water bottles.

4. Do not store foods containing acid (tomatoes, fruit salads) in plastic containers. Don't put hot food in there.

5. Wash the containers carefully, without damaging the surface layer, with baking soda diluted with water to a mushy state.

In Austria, Ireland, Australia, China, Bangladesh and other countries, the use of plastic bottles is completely prohibited

1. PET(E)/PET – polyethylene terephthalate: bottles for drinks, containers for bulk food products. The best plastic for bottles.

2. PEHD (HDPE)/HDPE – polyethylene low pressure: for packaging milk, bags. May release formaldehyde.

3. PVC/PVC – polyvinyl chloride: packaging of water and products by small enterprises. Contains the carcinogen vinyl chloride, which can penetrate into food and the human body. It's better not to use it.

4. PELD (LDPE)/LDPE – polyethylene high pressure: bags, flexible packaging. May release formaldehyde.

5. PP/PP – polypropylene: dishes for hot dishes, cling film. Withstands temperatures up to 75 degrees.

6. PS/PS – polystyrene: disposable tableware. Does not withstand heat. You cannot eat or drink hot foods, drinks or alcohol from it.

7. O(ther)/Other – a mixture of plastics or polymers not listed above. It is better not to use for food products.

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The dangers of plastic utensils and how they are labeled

Plastic has firmly taken its place in our kitchens, with a variety of plastic bowls, storage containers, baking dishes, plates and cups appearing on the shelves. We drink from plastic, eat from it, 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.

The high popularity of plastic dishes is due to the fact that they are convenient, light and cheap, and if they are disposable, there is no need to wash them.

Marks on plastic utensils

An international marking was developed for sorting plastic, a triangle formed by arrows with a number inside. The letter code of the plastic may be indicated under the triangle, together with or instead of the number. Plastic packaging is divided into 7 types.

Polyethylene terephthalate PET(E) or PET is used to produce disposable bottles for:

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

Reuse is completely prohibited as it may release phthalates.

High pressure polyethylene PEHD (HDPE) or LDPE is used for the production of:

packaging bags,
garbage bags,
milk packaging.

May release carcinogenic formaldehyde.

Polyvinyl chloride V, PVC or PVC is used to produce:

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

This plastic is virtually impossible to recycle. May release phthalates, heavy metals, and vinyl chloride upon contact with fatty or hot foods.

Low-density polyethylene PELD (LDPE) or HDPE is used for the production of:

bottles for detergents,
pipes,
toys,
bags and films for wrapping products.

May release formaldehyde.

Polypropylene PP or PP is used for the production of:

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

May release formaldehyde

Polystyrene PS or PS is used for the production of:

hot drink glasses (similar to styrofoam),
food trays (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 are used for the production of:

baby bottles,
multilayer packaging,
combined plastic,
reusable water bottles.

May release bisphenol A.

The dangers of plastic dishes

Studies have shown that plastics can be hazardous to health. Harmful substances from plastic begin to enter food even at the lowest heat, and often even 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 dishes have a shelf life of one year, after which harmful substances may begin to be released, as a result of which you cannot stock up on such dishes for future use.

Polystyrene (PS)

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

Polypropylene (PP)

Dishes made of polypropylene (PP) can withstand high temperatures, so you can heat food in the microwave. A glass of hot tea can be held in your hand and it will not be hot. The big disadvantage of this cookware is that it does not like fats; when it comes into contact with them, polypropylene breaks down and releases toxic substances.

Polycarbonate (PC)

Polycarbonate (PC) cookware is the safest and very practical. It looks like ceramic or porcelain dishes. Polycarbonate dishes do not break or oxidize. It is used to make storage containers and baking dishes.

Silicone

Silicone cookware will cope with temperatures from –60 to +280 degrees. This material is used to make molds for jelly and ice muffins. Silicone cookware is soft, very slippery and has non-stick properties, 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 to female sex hormones, interfering with normal hormone function and contributing to obesity, breast cancer, heart disease and diabetes. It is especially dangerous for the development of the boy’s reproductive system when he is in his mother’s stomach.

In the United States, they even banned the use of baby bottles that used bisphenol in their production.

Three years ago, Canadian scientists voiced the first warnings about the dangers of BPA. They proved that the substance used in the manufacture of plastic tableware leads to changes in the brain and puts the body at risk of breast or prostate cancer.

Phthalates also need to be added to the list of toxic substances that can pass into fats from plastic dishes. They give plastics elasticity. Phthalates are as toxic as bisphenol. They are found in 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 into glass, metal or ceramic dishes.

If you use plastic utensils 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, utensils are tested at temperatures up to 75 ° C, which means that the tests are milder true circumstances in the kitchen.

For cooking and hot food, you can only use fired utensils in which the surface has glazed, and as a result it has become inert to food. Stainless steel and glass behave similarly passively.

When reproducing the text of the article Plastic utensils harm and labeling, in whole or in parts, an active link to the website cooktips.ru is required.

Other articles about cookware for the perfect kitchen.

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Labeling plastic utensils: the harm and benefits of plastic

In the summer, plastic dishes are gaining popularity. It is quite convenient to transport food in it. As a rule, such things are used on long trips and on picnics. The undoubted advantage of such dishes is their low cost. It's no secret that in most cases it is disposable. The labeling of plastic utensils can tell a lot about its quality. After reading our article, you can easily determine what exactly the signs mean that are located on the bottom of a disposable plate or glass.

History of the creation of plastic tableware

Plastic dishes in the USSR. Nowadays

In the Soviet Union, such dishes began to appear only in 1960, but they were not popular until 1990. This was due to the lack of fast food establishments. It is worth paying attention to the fact that disposable paper tableware is now gaining popularity again. This is no coincidence, because quite often plastic products for storing food do not meet quality standards. Paper, in turn, is a safe and environmentally friendly material.

To purchase utensils that are harmless to health, you need to know what the markings on plastic utensils mean. You can find out this and much more in our article.

Plastic dishes have a lot of positive qualities. The very first thing consumers pay attention to is the low cost of such a product. It is convenient to transport and there is no need to wash. It is known that plastic dishes are quite durable, but only if there is no excessive load on them. As a rule, due to its positive qualities, it is used for picnics, parties, or simply taken with food to work or on a long trip. The labeling of plastic utensils for food products can tell a lot about its quality and recommendations for use. In order for disposable food containers to bring only benefits, you need to know how to use them correctly.

Harm and negative qualities of plastic and disposable tableware

Reusable and disposable tableware is harmful if it is used incorrectly. However, some doctors believe that it carries a certain danger under any circumstances. First of all, experts do not recommend reusing containers that are intended for one-time use. The second time it is used, it releases a large amount of substances hazardous to health.

It's no secret that plastic is a material obtained chemically. It is for this reason that when exposed to different products it can behave completely differently. For example, not every disposable glass can be used to drink warm tea. Labeling plastic containers is a great way to find out how a particular container can be used.

Plastic is known to be difficult to degrade. This process takes more than ten years. It is for this reason that this material negatively affects our ecology. To cope with this problem, factories are opening in many cities that process environmentally hazardous material. Unfortunately, there are quite a few such enterprises. It is for this reason that many fast food establishments prefer to use only paper utensils. It is more environmentally friendly and harmless.

Marking on plastic. Polystyrene dishes

Plastic utensils made of polypropylene

Are there plastic utensils for the microwave? The marking and its decoding, which is described in our article, will allow you to find out.

What does the triangle of three arrows mean on plastic containers?

Sign with cutlery

The labeling of plastic utensils is the first thing a consumer should pay attention to when purchasing. As we said earlier, if containers are used incorrectly, they can cause irreversible harm to health. Often on plastic utensils you can find a sign with the image of cutlery. This marker indicates that food can be stored in this container. If such a sign is crossed out, then you can be sure that the product is not intended for use in the kitchen.

If you go on a picnic with plastic utensils, then under no circumstances burn them after the picnic is over. When burned, disposable containers release substances hazardous to health. Experts strongly recommend not to eat in establishments that use plastic utensils. If you have no other choice, then be sure to pay attention to its quality. Labeling plastic utensils will allow you to find out whether they are used correctly in a particular establishment. A similar situation exists with coffee machines. Often, when there is a great desire to save money, they use cheaper glasses that are not intended for storing hot drinks.

As we said earlier, never reuse disposable tableware. This rule is not accidental, because in this case, the top layer on the surface of the plastic container is destroyed, and it begins to release life-threatening chemicals.

Let's sum it up

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The dangers of plastic dishes

What is plastic

Plastic or plasticOrganic material based on natural or synthetic high-molecular compounds. The most popular type of plastic is made from synthetic polymers.

The most common polymer materials (types of plastic):

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC)
Polypropylene
Polyethylene
Polystyrene
Polycarbonate

They are used to produce both technical and food plastics.

Plastics used for the production of products in contact with food and children's assortment, in mandatory undergoes examination for compliance with sanitary and hygienic standards and is certified. The manufacturer is obliged to label its products. Food-grade plastic has the generally accepted marking - “glass and fork”. It may state that it is intended for cold, bulk or hot foods, for use in the microwave or for freezing, and sometimes a temperature range is indicated.

Markings on plastic utensils indicate in what cases they can be used

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

The harm of plastic

Plastic in pure form It is a rather weak, brittle material - it cracks in the light and melts in the heat. For strength, stabilizers are added to it. This makes the plastic stronger, but also more toxic. Because of this, the harm of plastic utensils manifests itself.

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

Over time, decomposition products are released from plastic dishes

This process can occur while food is being stored or when it is heated. In addition, polymer materials are subject to change (aging), as a result of which destruction products are released from them. Moreover different kinds plastics become toxic when different conditions- some cannot be heated, others cannot be washed, etc. Incorrect operation becomes main reason harm from plastic utensils.

American scientists claim that up to 80% of “plastic” substances found in the human body come from construction and finishing materials, in particular from such popular plastic windows, furniture, but most of all - from dishes: from food-grade plastic, all kinds of compounds pass into food products. Domestic manufacturers assure that certified plastic tableware is absolutely safe - if used as intended.

Advantages of plastic dishes

Compactness, lightness, hygiene, low cost, ease of operation allow you to use plastic utensils outside the home - on the road, outdoors, etc. They do not require washing or cleaning. Therefore, the need for using plastic utensils is growing. Plastic utensils are also used by fast food restaurants, outdoor cafes and snack bars.

Plastic tableware is very popular due to its low cost

Plastic food utensils: how to use

To prevent plastic utensils from causing harm to health, they must be used strictly for their 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 for carbonated drink bottles. Yogurt cups are made from a grade of plastic that allows the casting method to produce a lightweight, cheap container that is neutral to milk fat, while pudding cups must resist sugar.

Experts insist: in no case should plastic packaging be used as containers for storing food, and disposable tableware should not be used repeatedly. Disposable packaging should be used for one time only.

How plastic will react to contact with ingredients for which it was not intended, and what compounds may form in this case, no one has studied. Particularly insidious are fats and acids, which can extract free toxic compounds from plastic.

Products with high content sugar and fat, do not cook in plastic containers. They are heated to the point where the plastic melts and deforms. You need to cook them in a special container that can withstand heating up to 140, 180 or more C.

When using plastic utensils, follow the temperature markings

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

You should not drink alcohol from disposable plastic glasses. Any plastic contains toxic substances that do not dissolve in ordinary cold drinks, but cannot withstand the chemical attack of alcohol.

The release of various compounds from plastic increases many times over when heated. Therefore, only special containers designed for this purpose can be used in a microwave oven.

At home, remove food immediately packaging film. Trim off the top layer of food stored in plastic packaging.

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

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

Do not keep water in pitcher filters for a long time. Replace the remaining water with fresh water in the morning and evening. A plastic water jug that becomes cloudy should be thrown away.

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

Any polymer material ages 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 shelf life applies not only to the product itself, but also to the packaging. This is most true for canned goods. For example, a toxic substance - biphenol - can be found in them.

Lined with plastic film containing biphenol inner surface tin cans so that the metal does not come 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 into glass containers, even if we are talking about short-term storage (under the influence of oxygen, the corrosion of cans increases sharply and the content of lead and tin in food begins to increase rapidly).

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

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

Today there are disposable tableware made from environmentally friendly pure materials- cane, bamboo, based eggshells, as well as paper tableware made from cardboard.

An alternative to plastic today is eco-friendly disposable tableware.

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 a letter abbreviation indicating the type of plastic.

When purchasing plastic utensils, be sure to pay attention to the labeling

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

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

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

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

Dishes made of polypropylene (PP marking) are safer. The polypropylene glass can withstand temperatures up to +100°C. You can drink hot tea or coffee from polypropylene glasses; you can heat food in the microwave in plates made from it. But upon contact with strong drinks and alcohol, it releases formaldehyde or phenol. If you drink vodka from such a glass, not only your kidneys, but also your eyesight will suffer. Formaldehyde is also considered a carcinogen.

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

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

Disposable cups can only be used for water. It is better not to drink sour juices, sodas, hot and strong drinks from them. Some coffee machines use polystyrene cups. That is, hot coffee, or you can’t drink tea from them.

Purchasing products instant cooking(those that just 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 the products into ceramic or enamel dishes and then pour boiling water over them.

Cool food before storing it in a container. For hot food and microwave ovens, use only special containers.

Cookware marked PS is intended for cold liquids only.

If there is no marking on the plastic, you can distinguish PS from PP by touch - polystyrene crunches and breaks, and polypropylene wrinkles. Also, the main distinctive feature of polystyrene bottles is the 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 Polyethylene high density: packaging bags, garbage bags

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

The synthetic poison dioxin can be released from PVC utensils in cases of heating food in microwave ovens or freezing water in freezers. Dioxins accumulate in human adipose tissue and are not eliminated from the body for a very long time (up to 30 years). Dioxin released 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 multilayer packaging or combined 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, and main courses are packaged in bags made of films that have a high melting point. Dishes in such packaging can be heated in the microwave or boiled directly in the bag. Such dishes can withstand temperatures from -40 to +230° C or more. But physiologists still advise eating them less often.

Dishes made of melamine (polymerized formaldehyde) - it is white, shiny (reminiscent of porcelain), weighs lighter, and does not break. When tapped, melamine dishes produce not a ringing sound, but a dull sound.

Dangerous melamine products are often found in children's dinnerware sets.

Using such utensils is extremely dangerous. To make the dishes stronger, 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 melamine dishes are poured hot water, formaldehyde begins to dissolve in water. Formaldehyde and asbestos can cause cancer. To ensure that the design on such a plate lasts for a long time, paints containing heavy metals, primarily lead, are used.

Plastic has long become commonplace in every family. Modern children are exposed to it from birth, sipping milk heated in the microwave from plastic bottles. But can we afford such a careless attitude towards plastic? How safe is it really? Should you choose plastic utensils for food products or use tried and tested old utensils? If you're worried about plastic, then maybe use paper utensils? High-quality dishes from the manufacturer on the website http://bumposuda.ru

We addressed these questions to leading experts in the food industry. You will read the answers received in this article.

What types of plastic are used in industry

There are now several types of plastic that can be used for different purposes. Plastic itself is not toxic, but for the formation necessary qualities For each type of plastic, various chemical plasticizers, heavy metal salts, stabilizers and other substances are used. When they are exposed to direct sunlight, hot or cold temperatures, all the dangerous chemicals begin to be released into the product, which is in a plastic container.

Important

Each type of plastic has a marking that indicates its purpose. Using plastic for other than its intended purpose will lead to the release of toxic substances from it, which in small quantities can cause allergic reaction, and in large cases - poisoning of the body and serious illnesses.

Types of plastic utensils for the kitchen

What markings should be on the plastic?

Melamine. Often not marked. This type of plastic is used for tableware, which is sold on the market at every step. Plates and trays of various shapes and sizes with beautiful bright designs often tempt a passing housewife to purchase such an inexpensive miracle for her kitchen. And now in the kitchen the plate begins to diligently serve the hostess, going into the microwave to heat up food or into the refrigerator for storage.

But, not every housewife knows that cheap dishes from the market are VERY toxic. Melamine is banned in many countries. The poison that is released from this type of plastic, under the influence of hot or cold temperatures, causes stomach and liver disorders, weakens vision and causes skin diseases. Melamine trays can be used for sliced bread or cold sandwiches.

Important

If you have melamine dishes in your home for a long time that have scratches or damage to the design caused by lead paint, you need to change them. The shelf life of such dishes is less than a year. It is not recommended to use this cookware for food products.

Manufacturers of high-quality plastic containers always put markings on their products, which determine the purpose of the container.

MarkingPP is our analogue of PP. Most safe look plastic utensils for food products. PP plastic is used to produce feeding bottles, food storage containers, disposable cups and even cling film. Such dishes are not afraid of either tall or low temperatures, approved for use in the microwave.

But, it is prohibited to store natural fats and alcoholic drinks. Fats and alcohols destroy the structure of plastic and substances that are released into products can cause a sharp deterioration in vision.

MarkingPS – our analogue of PS. Plastics with this marking are also often used to make food trays. Meat, fish, eggs are stored in it. Every housewife has more than once purchased packaging similar to foam plastic in the supermarket. PS plastic is intended for storing food in the refrigerator. In production, the following are often added to this plastic: chemical elements, which allow you to form it into cups for disposable use. You can drink cold drinks from them.

But, this plastic does not tolerate high temperatures. But we often drink hot coffee from such cups early in the morning or during the cold season of the year on the street.

MarkingPET orPETE – our analogue of PET. This type of plastic is used for storing soft drinks. We often buy juices, water and other drinks for children in bottles made of this plastic. Disposable plastic tableware for food products is also made from this type of plastic. Vegetable oil can be stored in PET plastic bottles.

But, the shelf life of this plastic is one year. Do not buy products in stores with a long shelf life that is coming to an end, because the product contained in a bottle that is more than a year old is already saturated with chemicals harmful to the body. Dishes made from this plastic are also resistant to high temperatures and are intended for storing food at room temperature.

MarkingHDPE is our analogue of HDPE. Containers made from this type of plastic are widely used in the household chemicals industry.

But, plastic bowls, serving trays, mugs and other useful household items are often made from this type of plastic.

MarkingV orPVC is our analogue of PVC. This type of plastic is used to produce plastic pipes, floor coverings, containers for strong household chemicals.

But, in combination with various chemical additives, you can obtain cheap raw materials for the production of large-volume plastic bottles for storing water, edible fats, and disposable tableware. This type of plastic is the most dangerous for the body.

Important

If PVC containers are exposed to direct sunlight, then within a week the product stored in it will be poisoned by carcinogens.

You can easily find out that a container is made of PVC - just press on the bottle with your fingernail and you will see a dented white mark from your nail on the container; other types of plastic do not leave a white mark.

MarkingLDPE is our analogue of MDV. This type of plastic is recognized as safe for the pharmaceutical and food industries. Various packaging and films are produced from it.

But However, it is not recommended to freeze food in this film; it is better to use special cling film for this purpose.

MarkingOTHER – Other. Dishes with this marking are highly durable and can withstand different temperatures, which is why they are often used in restaurants. This type of plastic is considered safe for the environment.

But, when dishes made from this plastic are damaged or after the expiration date, a carcinogen begins to be released from it, which can cause diabetes or hormonal imbalance in the body.

General rules for the use of plastic utensils

For disposable tableware, use only those with the “glass, fork” symbol. If the icon is crossed out, this indicates that this dish cannot be used for storing food.
If the dishes are damaged, do not use them; it is better to replace them with dishes made of a different material.
Try to avoid cooking food in the microwave in plastic containers, even if the seller assured you that this can be done - your health comes first. Microwaves are also suitable for these purposes.
You should also avoid using plastic to store food in the refrigerator.
When going into nature, leave plastic bottles with drinks in the shade or cover them to protect from sunlight.
Do not burn plastic dishes. As a result of combustion, a huge amount of toxic substances is released. Plastic must be disposed of in special trash containers.

Safe plastic utensils on airplanes

If there is an urgent need, you can use disposable plastic utensils; they will not harm you at once. you already know and know what type of plastic is not harmful to the baby.

If you have not yet decided whether to purchase plastic utensils for food products, then follow the advice of experts who do not recommend plastic utensils for regular use at home.

Tableware made from food grade polypropylene intended for use in the temperature range from –25 to +110 °C. You can store hot and cold foods in it. Food products placed in it can be heated in a microwave oven, cooked in a steam oven (steamer), stored in a refrigerator or freezer. These dishes can be washed in the dishwasher, and you can boil water in them using an electric boiler.

Polypropylene is a modern, high-quality and environmentally friendly polymer material. Its use makes it possible to realize the dream of dishes with lines of any complexity that are chemically neutral and do not interact with food.

The conditions for obtaining this material are similar to those under which polyethylene is produced. However, compared to it, polypropylene has a number of advantages:

resistance to corrosion and cracking;
hardness and abrasion resistance;
chemical resistance - reacts only with strong oxidizing agents, absolutely neutral in relation to food;
The maximum temperature for using polypropylene cookware is +110 °C.

Range

The Tekhosnastka company offers a wide selection of environmentally friendly clean dishes made from food grade polypropylene. In our catalog you will find:

spoons, forks and knives;
plates and bowls;
funnels;
picnic and travel sets;
sets for drinks and brewing tea and herbs;
dishes, lids microwave ovens and other dishes made of antimicrobial plastic.

Our advantages:

fast processing and execution of orders;
delivery of purchases by courier in Moscow, transport companies or by mail to the regions, pickup is also possible;
guaranteed product quality and manufacturer prices;
promotions and discounts for regular customers.