Plastic containers are practical and have become part of daily life. However, not all foods are safe to store in them. Some types of food can actually be damaged faster or even be risky for health if stored in plastic containers, especially under certain conditions.
According to food safety experts, it is important to be more selective in choosing how to store food. Here are five types of food that should not be stored in plastic containers and the reasons for it, as reported by the Real Simple page.
1. Raw Meat and Poultry
Storing raw meat in plastic containers can accelerate the growth of harmful bacteria.
"Raw meat releases a natural liquid that is an ideal place for bacteria such as Salmonella and E. coli to thrive," said Brad Lampe, MPH, lead research toxicologist at NSF, a nonprofit organization focused on public health safety standards.
"When stored in a plastic container, moisture increases and significantly accelerates bacterial growth," he added.
As a result, the risk of cross-contamination and spoilage can occur faster, even in a matter of hours.
2. Fresh Milk Products
Soft cheese and other dairy products require good air circulation to stay fresh.
"Plastic containers actually trap moisture and create conditions that accelerate the growth of bacteria and fungi," explained Lampe.
This can cause dairy products to spoil quickly, mold, and lose their nutritional value.
3. Gas Ethylene Producing Fruit
Fruits such as apples, bananas, and tomatoes produce ethylene gas that speeds up the ripening process.
"If stored in a closed plastic container, ethylene gas will be trapped and accelerate decay," concluded Lampe.
"Fruits become soft quickly and lose their nutrients," he continued.
Therefore, these fruits are better stored in an open place or a container that has ventilation.
4. Leafy Vegetables and Fresh Herbs
Vegetables such as lettuce and spinach are very sensitive to excess moisture.
"Plastic containers can trap water and cause vegetables to wilt quickly, ooze, and even become a bacterial nest," said Lampe.
This humid condition can also increase the risk of the growth of harmful bacteria.
5. Hot Food Waste
Storing hot food directly into a plastic container is a common habit, but it is risky.
"Steam from hot food creates condensation that increases the temperature in the container, so that bacteria grow quickly," said Lampe.
"In addition, heat can trigger the release of chemicals from plastic into food," he added.
Substances such as BPA and microplastics have the potential to enter the body if this happens continuously.
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