Don't Be Careless, 5 Kitchen Equipment That Becomes A Source Of Food Contamination

JAKARTA - So far, we often think that health threats come from instant foods, additional ingredients, or chemicals in food. In fact, the kitchen utensils used daily can also secretly have a bad impact.

A cardiologist, Dr. Alok Chopra, through his Instagram account shared information about 5 daily kitchen items that looked trivial, but turned out to be harmful to health.

According to him, it is not only foodstuffs that need attention, but also tools that are used for cooking. Then, what are these objects and a healthier alternative?

Here are 5 kitchen items that are the source of food contamination, as reported by the Times of India website.

1. Anti-Lengket Wajan

Anti-rocketed waves are practical, but they have their own risks. If it is too hot or scratched, this type of pan can emit harmful substances.

In old pans, they usually still contain chemicals such as PFOA and PFAS that can accumulate in the body. These substances are associated with hormonal disorders, problems in the immune system, to long-term toxins.

The healthy alternative is to use stainless steel cooking utensils, iron cor (iron cast), glass, or ceramics. In addition, avoid using pans that have been peeling or damaged.

2. Aluminum Foil

Aluminum foils are often used to wrap food or roast. However, if used in acid or high temperature foods, aluminum particles can enter the food.

Exposure in the long term is suspected to be related to neurological problems and the risk of Alzheimer's. In addition, aluminum foil is not environmentally friendly because it is difficult to decompose.

Alternatively, it uses bread paper (parchment paper) to roast, as well as a glass or silicon container to store and heat food.

3. Plastic containers

Many people still store food in plastic containers. In fact, some types of plastic, especially those that are cheap or old, can release harmful substances such as BPA, BPS, and phthalates, especially if they are used for hot, oily, or acid foods.

This substance can interfere with hormones, reduce fertility, and weaken the immune system. Black plastic containers are even more risky because they are often made from electronic waste.

The alternative is to store food in glass, ceramic, or stainless steel containers. Never heat food in plastic containers, even though there is a 'safe for microwave' label.

4. Plastic Cooking Tool

Pondok, spatula, or centong plastic can emit harmful substances when exposed to heat, including dyes, additional chemicals, to microplastics. These substances can enter the body through food, causing inflammation for a long period of time.

The healthy alternative is to replace it with cooking utensils from wood, bamboo, or stainless steel. Besides being safer, it is also durable and environmentally friendly.

5. Gas Stove

Gas stoves are still the mainstay of many households, but they also save risks. When used, gas stoves emit indoor air pollutants such as benzene, nitrogen dioxide, and carbon monoxide. These substances can increase the risk of asthma, respiratory infection, to cancer, especially if the kitchen does not have good ventilation.

The healthy alternative is to use induction or electric stoves for cleaner air. If you can't switch, at least make sure the kitchen has good ventilation, such as opening windows, installing fan exhausts, and using air purifiers whenever possible.