IPB Expert: The Use Of Plastic Spatula Can Influence Fertility And Increase Cancer Risk

Plastic bagula (Photo: Freepik/fabricantasimf)

Choosing a drain or spatula in the kitchen can't be done carelessly. Biomedical expert from IPB University, Benedikta Diah Saraswati, SSi, MBiomed emphasized that wrong sodet ingredients can endanger health, especially when used at high temperatures.

Sodet made from plastic has the potential to degrade when exposed to heat. According to Diah, heat can break chemical bonds in polymers, releasing harmful compounds into food.

Some of the risky compounds that may arise include Bisphenol A (BPA), phthalate, formaldehyde, to aromatic amina. BPA and phthalate include endocrine distortion, substances that can interfere with the body's hormones, especially the hormone estrogen.

"Long-term exposure can cause fertility disorders, insulin resistance, fetal development problems, to increase the risk of cancer," he explained, quoted from the official IPB University website.

Diah also warned of the dangers of melted plastic sodets.

"The melted plastic releases the remaining monomers such as styrene, ethylene, and propylene. These compounds are neurotoxic and heptotoxic, even potentially carcinogenic," he added.

In addition, friction and heat can make plastics release microplastics that are also swallowed with food. These particles can penetrate the intestinal walls, enter the bloodstream and accumulate in the body's tissue, which has the potential to trigger oxidative stress, chronic inflammation, and metabolic disorders.

The silikon food-grade is a much safer alternative than ordinary plastic. Diah explained that silicon is composed of stable silica chains, heat resistant to about 250$C, and free from BPA, phthalate, or PVC. Because of its inert nature, silicon does not react easily to oil or food acid.

The most recommended type is platinum-cured silicone, which is silicon processed with platinum catalyst so that it is purer and more heat resistant.

"Pure silicon does not cause oxidative stress or hormonal disorders, so it is safe to use in the long term," said Diah.

Even so, he reminded to be aware of cheap silicon products mixed with plastic materials. Its characteristics include easy to change color, the price is too cheap, or the smell of pungent chemistry.

Apart from silicon, natural wood and bamboo are also safe because they have natural antimicrobial properties. Stainless steel is suitable for cooking at high temperatures, but it should not be used in anti-rocket pans because it can damage anti-rocket layers.

For household kitchens, Diah recommends a combination of food-grade silicon drains for anti-stick pans and wood sodets for medium-temperature dishes.

Some tips to make it safer:

- Select a sodet marked BPA-free and Phthalate-free.

- Make sure there is a Platinum-cured silicone description.

- Do a simple test with a silicon cone. If a white or cracked color appears, there may be a mixture of plastics. Pure silicones do not change color.

By choosing the right cooking utensils, we not only get comfort while cooking, but also protect family health from the risk of exposure to harmful chemicals.