Plastic vs. Glass

PLASTIC CAUSES CANCER! The age-old myth that every time you eat out of a plastic container you are bound to be riddled with disease. False. 

You probably have seen many folks on the internet display fake news about the use of plastic containers, however most of these are false claims. According to the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics, finding a solution to reducing your food waste by utilizing food containers is helpful in day to day life, but we need to be mindful of what kind is better to use: glass or plastic. Here's what you really need to know: 

Know the code: The tiny triangle on the bottom of your Rubbermaid actually has a purpose in this world! The number (1-7) in the triangle indicates what kind of material the plastic is made from. Generally, the safest plastics to choose from when using a container for food is 1, 2, 4, and 5. Now according to the American Academy of Pediatrics consumers should avoid using those labeled with 3, 6, and 7 as these can contain some harmful material such as polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polystyrene, and Bisphenol-A (BPA). In fact, the use of BPA has been banned in the design of baby bottles, sippy cups, and the packaging of infant formulas. Although us "big kids" are getting more exposure to this chemical in our plastic materials (GASP!), the USDA continues to monitor the use of BPA closely and products that are BPA-free can be purchased just about anywhere. 

Keep it cool: As much as you want to reheat your leftovers from last night's dinner or use an old butter container when you're running low on tupperware, the Academy  does not recommend this. Although plastic is strong, it can break down overtime due to high temps and overuse. As much as I am a culprit of this as well, you should never microwave food in plastic containers. These containers are for one-time use only! Also, for all my friends out there who throw everything they own into the dishwasher you're going to have to break that habit. Avoid washing your plastic containers in the dishwasher at all costs. The take away here: keep the plastic at cool temps. 

Recycle: Let's beat those greenhouse gases and show them who's boss!!! The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) reminds us to recycle our plastic containers appropriately, as not recycling can contribute to greenhouse gas emissions which can take a nasty toll on our environment. No need to hug a tree, just recycle that plastic! 

Both are completely acceptable for proper food storage and transportation. When reaching for plastic remember to be mindful of your choice and limit this to cold storage. Glass or stainless steel containers are ideal for both hot and cold foods. For myself, I think glass has a much better aesthetic, and my Dad's pasta sauce doesn't stain the container after I use it. But plastic containers are cheaper, and don't break when my lunch bag slips out of my hands and goes rolling down the sidewalk (oops...). So whats your decision: glass or plastic? 

AG 

Reference: 
https://www.eatright.org/homefoodsafety/four-steps/refrigerate/glass-versus-plastic-containers