Safe Packaging of Hot Food: Using Plastic Bags and Wraps
In everyday life, plastic bags and wraps are frequently used for packaging food. Especially when packaging hot food, there are concerns about whether these materials might have harmful effects on the food. Many people fear using such packaging due to concerns about environmental hormones. In this article, we will explore scientifically-based methods for safely packaging hot food using plastic bags and wraps.
Are Plastic Bags Safe for Packaging Hot Food?
Using plastic bags to package hot food, especially soups, is safer than many think. The main materials used for food-grade plastic bags are High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE) and Low-Density Polyethylene (LDPE). These two materials have excellent heat resistance and do not melt or release harmful substances at typical food packaging temperatures.
Specifically, HDPE can withstand temperatures up to 120°C (248°F), and LDPE up to 110°C (230°F). Given that soups and broths usually reach a maximum temperature of around 100°C (212°F), it is safe to package them in HDPE or LDPE plastic bags. Additionally, the Korea Food and Drug Administration strictly regulates the leaching of environmental hormones from plastic bags, confirming that these products meet safety standards.
However, some precautions should be taken. For instance, if you place extremely hot food, such as fried items with surface temperatures that can reach very high levels, directly into a plastic bag, the plastic might melt. In such cases, the plastic could stick to the food or release harmful substances, so it’s better to let the food cool slightly before packaging.
Wraps: Precautions and Safe Usage
It is crucial to check the type of plastic when using wraps. In particular, wraps commonly used in restaurants often contain Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC). PVC is flexible and adhesive, thanks to the inclusion of phthalate plasticizers, which can leach into food when in contact with high temperatures or fatty foods. Phthalates are classified as environmental hormones that can disrupt the endocrine system and negatively affect long-term health.
To use wraps safely, ensure that fatty foods, such as meat-based soups or grilled items, do not come into direct contact with the wrap. It’s also advisable to refrigerate wrapped food to minimize the risk of harmful chemicals leaching into the food. Avoid using wraps in the microwave when cooking; if necessary, ensure that the wrap doesn’t touch the food directly and that there is enough space for air circulation.
Home-use wraps, often made from HDPE or LDPE like plastic bags, do not contain plasticizers and are safer for packaging hot foods or for use in the microwave. These wraps are also safe for storing low-fat foods, such as fruits and vegetables.
Additional Tips: Things to Consider When Packaging Hot Food
When packaging hot food, you can also consider using other types of packaging materials, such as heat-resistant glass or stainless steel containers. These materials are highly durable under high temperatures and eliminate concerns about environmental hormones, making them a safer choice.
Additionally, it is important to cool the food as quickly as possible after packaging. Prolonged storage of food at high temperatures can degrade the quality of the food and increase the risk of substances leaching from the packaging material. It is advisable to refrigerate or consume the food promptly after packaging.
