Food Wrapping Safety

When we go to the grocery store, many of the products we buy are not consumed all in one sitting. Unless you have a large family where the entire product is used, there are usually leftovers. Leftovers are usually wrapped in plastic or foil. This method of food wrapping is convenient, but some people don’t know that some wraps contain certain chemicals that can be hazardous to your health. This is especially true with children. The same chemicals can be harmful for the environment as well. Food wrap that ends up in landfills all over the world leaks out these same kinds of chemicals. Knowing how to safely use food wraps will give you peace of mind, and help keep the environment clean.

One certain type of food wrapping, called #3 PVC is by far one of the worst plastics for your health and the environment. Poisonous chemicals are added to this type of plastic to soften it. This certain plastic is very common in prepackaged lunch meat and cheese that you find in the supermarket. Even when making purchases at the deli, you run a risk of being exposed to this certain type of food wrapping, since #3 PVC is the most universal type used.

The food wrapping #3 PVC has fallen under scrutiny and testing on animals has begun. One study showed tumors appearing in mice. Another similar study confirmed birth defects in the mice, also. The chemicals hinder the routine role of hormonal systems. Small children, as well as fetuses, are especially susceptible. Their hormone systems are yet to mature.

There are things you can do to help keep your family safe from this harmful plastic. There are many websites on the internet which offer lists of food wrapping and other common household products that are safer to use. On the flipside, they also notify you of which ones are especially harmful and to stay away from.

When grocery shopping and at home, there are several ways to avoid contact with harmful food wrappings as well. Glass is a great way to store food. There are no harmful chemicals in glass. Although less convenient, it sure beats the alternative! Always try to purchase products that are made from recyclable materials. If you are buying prepackaged meats at the supermarket, try to find the butcher. Butchers can make to order the kinds of meats you are looking for. They also wrap their meats in butcher paper, which is chemical free. Try to ask the bagboy to place your purchase in paper bags instead of plastic bags. If paper is not an option, bring cloth bags from home. If you absolutely cannot avoid plastic food wrapping, always choose #1 or #2 plastic. The marking can be found on the bottom of the container you are purchasing.

Using these food wrapping resources can help you keep your family safe from harmful plastic chemicals. By not purchasing harmful products, or finding an alternative way to package them, you are also keeping the environment clean for generations to follow.

 

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