FOOD STORAGE CONTAINERS

Keeping food safe at home sometimes becomes a tragic situation. It requires a proper storage container to keep it safe and fresh. So, keep reading this article to get information on when you are using food storage containers.

It has a kind of tradition of storing food in our family. Whether it is a big gathering, parties, or holiday meals, leftover food is being stored in every kitchen. All the plastic tubs cling wrap and other containers are well stocked when it comes to these festivities. Although they cut down on food waste, some containers pose more of a burden on the environment and potentially to your health, than others.

The Public Health and Safety Organization recommends choosing the correct containers for intended use and storage of food properly to keep it safe and fresh.

Use the container for its intended purpose:

There are different materials of plastic containers out there in the market, a food-grade container is one that will not transfer non-food chemicals into the food, and contains no chemicals which would be hazardous to human health. Plastics designed for single-use should be used only once. Plastic breaks down over time and some are not designed to withstand heating and cooling. Most plastics with recycling code number “one” are intended for single-use, such as disposable water bottles. In general, they are fine for refrigerating leftovers but are not designed for heat exposure or long-term use. There are specific containers designed for steaming and carrying meals that are microwaved before eating. Each piece made from BPA-free plastic is designed for easy storage and some may feature a freezer tray or lid to provide the built-in cooling capability. Remember to reheat leftovers to 165 degrees Fahrenheit.

Wash the containers by hands:

You can wash plastic containers in the dishwashers if they allow you to otherwise wash it by hands to be more cautious. You can go for glass containers if you want utmost safety. In the dishwasher, plastics exposed to detergents and heat may accelerate the leaching of BPA from food containers. Pay attention to lids that may contain seals, over time these deteriorate, become loosened, or could collect pathogens. A tight secure seal is desirable.

Do not freeze

If your plastic containers have a freezer-safe label otherwise don't keep your plastic containers in the freezer. Freezer temperatures can cause plastics to deteriorate, which increases the leaching of chemicals into the food when you take containers out of the freezer to thaw or reheat.

Using Microwave:

If your plastic food container is the microwavable label they only mean that they should not melt, crack or fall apart when used in the microwave, the label is no guarantee that containers don't leach chemicals into foods when heated.

Before selecting the type of container to use, several factors must be taken into consideration. Consider the type of storage (room temperature, refrigerated, or frozen), the food being stored, length of storage, and storage space. The container can be a plastic bag, plastic container, or glass container.