Takeaway food often represents a solution to the speed of the times we live in; However, the packaging that is used is not always the most suitable for health, since it is often made with substances that can be transferred, even in small proportions, to food.
Such is the case of packages made with plastics into which air is injected, generating a spongy appearance.
As we have mentioned in other installments, the food preservation industry has standards that must be met so that chemicals do not transfer to food.
However, there is a group of chemicals that can be transferred to food without a clear intention, so studies are constantly being done to determine their effects on health.
Plastic as a base for making food packaging
Styrofoam is one of the most used materials in the preparation of food packaging, and 5% plastic and 95% air are used, explains the National Association of the Chemical Industry (ANIQ).
This material has characteristics such as cushioning, strength, low weight, thermal protection and resistance to humidity, which is why it is used to transport and store food.
However, packages made with Styrofoam can “transfer small particles of styrene to food, but it does not represent a health alarm,” indicates an article published by the Food and Development Research Center (CIAD).
Information that is based on the verifications of the United States Federal Food and Drug Administration that indicate that “the amounts of styrene that migrate to food are very low.”
Substances such as styrene can be transferred to food
Styrene is a chemical that is used in the manufacture of various plastics, such as polystyrene, popularly known as Styrofoam, a white plastic with a spongy consistency that is widely used in food packaging.
Styrene substances are transferred to food in small quantities, without this representing a risk to people. The Food and Development Research Center (CIAD) reports that “Studies conducted in the United States and Canada report that the annual per capita intake of styrene is 3.3 mg and that the migration levels of styrene monomer in polystyrene containers is 2.8mg”.
An important fact about this material is that when it is in contact with high temperatures, the styrene particles are more likely to be transferred to food, such as hot drinks or instant soups.
One of the researchers’ recommendations is to check the expiration date before using a Styrofoam package for instant food.
In environmental matters, conventional Styrofoam is one of the disposable materials that takes the longest to biodegrade. What translates into ecological impact is great, so it is recommended to evaluate this aspect before using this type of packaging.
Keep reading:
. Are food storage containers safe?
. What is the difference between the expiration date and best before date?
. They discover material that eliminates bacteria in food packaging