By Miyeilis Flores
May 25, 2024, 2:55 PM EDT
For many, cooking is a temple in which the home is fed, where cleanliness and order must reign, so we must think twice before using that scratched pan, plastic utensils or expired products. Have you wondered about the health consequences of having things in your kitchen that would be better to throw away.
If you are worried about removing some things from your kitchen, in this installment we will review four of them and why it is better to throw them in the trash.
- Plastic Cookware: Although plastic cookware is versatile and affordable it can actually pose hidden risks to our health and well-being, as when exposed to temperatures above 158 degrees Fahrenheit, it releases toxic byproducts called oligomers. These substances can easily transfer to food and cause health problems. Utensils made with alternative materials such as wood or silicone are recommended, durable materials with fewer health risks.
- Plastic containers: Plastic containers are practical, but many times many kitchens end up full of countless mismatched containers and lids in different shapes and sizes. The truth is that these containers can be harmful to our health. Especially because they have bisphenol A (or BPA), a chemical that has been used to make plastics since the 1950s, including kitchen food containers. Since about 2012, manufacturers have been producing BPA-free plastic products. Additionally, even if a plastic container is BPA-free, it may contain other potential toxins.
- Chipped dinnerware: Although a small crack or chip on your favorite bowl, plate or mug may seem insignificant, the truth is that it can represent a potential threat to your safety, as chipped dinnerware creates uneven edges where bacteria can hide, which increases the risk of contamination during food preparation and service. Additionally, these chipped edges can also be sharp, posing the risk of cutting or scraping your hands or mouth.
- Expired baking powder and baking soda: Baking powder and baking soda are common additions to our cakes, breads and cookies, but since they are used in small quantities they usually last a long time, losing their effects. Over time, exposure to air and moisture can cause these powders to lose their effectiveness. That’s why it’s important to check the expiration date on your baking powder and baking soda.
Keep reading:
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- Tastiest chicken with only 3 ingredients
- 4 tricks to wash and disinfect the wooden boards in your kitchen