Plastic Containers Could Be Damaging Your Health, Warn Experts

Microwaving Plastic Containers Could Be Damaging Your Health
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Hands up if, after an Indian takeaway, you save some of your curry, store it in tupperware and microwave it the following day?

If the answer is yes, then you might want to take note of a new cause of concern which has been flagged up by experts in Brussels.

Scientists have warned that our increasing reliance on a group of chemicals present in almost everything we use, from plastic water bottles, drinks cans and paints to clothing, cosmetics, toothpaste and hairspray, is potentially dangerous.

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These chemicals, also known as ‘endocrine-disrupting chemicals’ or EDCs - comprising BPAs and phthalates - are capable of interfering with the way our glands produce hormones, which govern virtually everything our bodies do.

This includes the way we reproduce, grow, sleep, heal, develop mentally and burn energy.

Researchers suggest that EDCs can be especially dangerous if taken in by very young children or unborn babies.

Due to the number of chemicals present in everyday objects, EDCs are entering the environment through waste water systems, agricultural run-off and the burning of waste.

A report published in 2013 by the World Health Organisation and the UN Environment Programme states that these chemicals are exposing us to dangers through "the ingestion of food, dust and water, inhalation of gases and particles in the air, and skin contact".

The report notes that there are associations between exposure to EDCs and problems including breast and prostate cancer, infertility, diabetes, early puberty, obesity, autoimmune disease, asthma, heart disease, stroke, ADHD and other learning disabilities, Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s.

It calls for urgent research into synthetic materials and the disrupting effects they might have on the hormone system, as well as health implications.

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What You Can And Can't Put In The Microwave
Yogurt Containers: Don't(01 of11)
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One-time use plastic containers -- such as yogurt, margarine or sour cream -- shouldn't be used in the microwave. Since they're intended just for one time use, they aren't made to be heated. The containers could warp or melt in the microwave, which can release chemicals into your food. (credit:Stonyfield)
Bread Basket: Do(02 of11)
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Wicker bread baskets can withstand the heat of the microwave for short periods of time. If you need to warm up some rolls, you can reheat them ready to be served in the basket for 20 seconds. Be sure to line the basket with a paper napkin to absorb any moisture from the food (which can make the bread soggy). (credit:Food Service Warehouse)
Lunch Bags: Don't(03 of11)
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It's not recommended that you put paper bags, plastic bags or newspapers in the microwave. The USDA says that, "They are not sanitary, may cause a fire, and may emit toxic fumes. Intense heat may cause a bag to ignite, causing a fire in the oven and possibly contaminating the turkey." (credit:Webrestaurant Store)
Wax Paper: Do(04 of11)
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Wax paper and parchment paper have a higher tolerance for heat which makes them safe for use in the microwave. They're useful in covering foods to avoid splatters or spills while reheating. (credit:Amazon)
Chinese Take-Out Containers: Don't(05 of11)
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Many people have made this mistake, and they've had to deal with the spark (or flame) that happens when you nuke this container. Metal is one of those items that you want to keep far away from the microwave. No metal utensils, cookware, or containers. (credit:Webrestaurant Store)
Pyrex: Do(06 of11)
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Pyrex is a heat-proof glass which means that it can with stand the microwaves. You can use pyrex cookware and measuring cups for heating foods as well as other microwave-safe cookware such as Corning Ware. (credit:Pyrex)
Styrofoam Containers: Don't(07 of11)
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Most of us have heard this before, but just in case a few of you are still reheating your take out in these containers, keep this in mind: styrofoam is a type of plastic. And most of these containers are not meant to be reheated -- unless otherwise marked on the container. (credit:Webrestaurant Store)
Plastic Wrap: Do(08 of11)
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Not all plastic wrap should be used in the microwave, but there is heavy-duty plastic wrap that works great to cover your food. Be sure that the plastic is not laying directly on the food (because it can melt) and make a vent for the steam to escape. (credit:Amazon)
China With Silver Trim: Don't(09 of11)
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We're not speaking of all china (though you should think twice before putting fine china in the microwave), but china with silver or gold trim should never be used in the microwave. The metal can react to the heat and damage your microwave (and china). (credit:Macy's)
Paper Plates: Do(10 of11)
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Most paper plates, cups and napkins are safe to use in the microwave. According to the USDA, it's best to use plain white ones without any printed material on them. (credit:One Cup Connection)
Traveler Mug: Depends(11 of11)
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Many travel mugs are not safe to put in the microwave. If it's made from stainless steel, don't nuke it. The stainless steel will block the heat from warming you coffee or tea and can damage your microwave. If it's plastic, check the bottom of the mug to find out. Microwave safe mugs will be indicated. (credit:CustomInk)

Dr Steve Ball, head of endocrinology at Newcastle upon Tyne Hospital's NHS Foundation Trust, tells The Daily Mail: "I avoid heating plastics as several studies have shown this raises the risk of chemicals such as phthalates leaching into the food.

"If I am microwaving something, I always take it out of the plastic tray first and put it on a plate."

Meanwhile Alastair Hay, professor of environmental toxicology at the University of Leeds, says he is less concerned.

"With a lot of these substances there are huge differences between the concentrations shown to disrupt hormone behaviour and the amounts to which we are exposed, even with children," says Prof Hay.

"I don’t do anything directly to control my exposure, though, like most people, I wash food carefully so any pesticides or bacteria are removed."

So what's the solution?

Most chemicals used commercially haven't been tested for their impact on hormones - a startling fact, particularly if they could eventually cause cancer, heart disease or other serious illnesses.

Regulation seems to be the main answer, especially as there's greater evidence to suggest that EDCs might be behind health problems including infertility and obesity.