Can chemicals leach unto food from plastic wrap or containers?

Not when the food is going into the fridge. “The structure of plastic starts to break down with heating,” explains food scientist Dr.  Karin Allen.  “If you heat a plastic product, even one that’s BPA-free, it may leach.  If the plastic melts or warps, throw the food away.”

According to food scientist Joe Regenstein, many films have chemicals that are meant to migrate. They are safe and migrate more slowly in the refrigerator.

In January, 2010, the FDA released a report indicating some concern about BPA (Bisphenol-A, a chemical found in many products made of hard plastic) from plastics having an adverse effect on health.  ABC World News reported that plastics containing BPA are usually marked with the number 7 on the bottom.

For more information on plastics used for food and beverages, click here: http://shelflifeadvice.com/faq/are-we-eating-chemicals-plastics-along-our-food  You’ll find many links concerning plastics on this page. 

Source(s):

Brewer, M.S. and Chapman-Novakofski, K. 2006.  Meat Safety for the Consumer, University of Illinois Extension.

Joe Regenstein, Ph.D. Cornell University, Dept. of Food Science

ABC World News “FDA Backtracks on Potential Danger of BPA”

http://www.cancerschmancer.org/articles/environment/fda-backtracks-potential-danger-bpa

General Guidelines for Wrapping Foods

What’s better for wrapping food—plastic or aluminum foil?

What produce needs to be wrapped before refrigerating?

Should I wrap raw vegetables loosely or tightly before refrigerating?

How should fruits be wrapped before refrigeration?

Can I refrigerate meat and poultry in its store wrapping?

How should food be handled and wrapped for freezing?

Using Plastic Wraps, Bags, and Containers

Are some plastic wraps more effective than others?

Are any plastic wraps or containers really “microwave safe”?

Can I use plastic freezer bags to store produce in the fridge?

Do coated plastic bags really help produce last longer?

Using Aluminum Foil Properly

What are some advantages and disadvantages of aluminum foil?

Does exposure to aluminum cause Alzheimer’s disease?

Does aluminum foil give foods a metallic taste?

Why does foil sometimes darken, discolor, and leave black specks on food?

Will a foil cover help keep foods on the table hot or cold?

Is it safe to use aluminum foil in a microwave oven?