Storing food in plastic containers is very useful. It allows you to store large quantities of loose food, such as cereals and dried legumes, for times of emergency. Plastic containers allow you to buy large quantities of food, and therefore be able to save, and protect them from insects, thanks to the hermetic seal. However, not all types of plastics are suitable for contact with food; some can release toxic substances. To avoid this problem, you must learn to identify the type of containers before using them.
Steps
Step 1. Check the recycling symbol on the bottom of the container
It is the simplest and fastest way to understand if it is suitable for food use. This number is between 1 and 7, and is printed inside a triangle made up of arrows. As a general rule, the numbers 1-2-4-5 indicate safe containers for food.
- The best type of plastic for long-term food storage is High Density Polyethylene (HDPE), which is referred to as "2". HDPE is one of the most stable and inert plastics, and all containers designed for storing food are made of this material.
- Other acceptable plastics are PETE, LDPE and polypropylene (PP). These materials are indicated, respectively, with the numbers 1, 4 and 5.
- An exception to this rule is represented by bio-plastics, which are categorized under the all-encompassing symbol "7". Bio-plastics are materials similar to plastic but synthesized from plant elements such as corn. They are non-reactive and can be used for food storage. Note that not all plastics marked with the number "7" are bio-plastics.
Step 2. Check for all food symbols that are stamped on the bottom of the container
There is a standard system for indicating its use with food. A cup and fork mean the container is safe for food storage. Radiant waves indicate that the container can be used in the "microwave"; a snowflake indicates that it can be placed in the "freezer" and a dish in the water indicates safe washing in the "dishwasher".
Step 3. Read the container label
If you have not removed it, you can read the degree of safety of the material for food use. Since the production of food containers is more expensive, the degree of safety of the material is always widely advertised on the packaging and on the label, because it represents an added value. If you do not find any indication you can contact the manufacturer and ask for information.
Step 4. Use those containers that have already been used to store food
If a product was built to be in contact with food, you can bet that it can also be used for storing bulk food.
- For example, many bakers receive icings and other ingredients in large 20-liter buckets. They often sell or give these now empty buckets to the public, so you can use them to store your food.
- Small containers do not follow this rule. For example, the water bottles are made of PETE (identification number "1"), which is designed to be used only once and then recycled. PETE is initially safe in contact with food, but can degrade and release dangerous substances if it is reused.
