Think twice about plastics in your kitchen...

Did you ever think about using plastics in your kitchen and whether it is good for you? If you're like me, it's always in the back of your mind but those plastics are just so convenient! One of my husband's co-workers recently questioned his practice of microwaving our leftovers in his plastic Gladware container. Until then, I figured it might be a bad idea but probably couldn't hurt. So, I decided to do a little research. Here are some helpful articles I found about the different types of plastic that show up in your kitchen:

This one explains the safety level of each type of plastic and whether studies have shown them to leach chemicals into your food. It basically says do not heat any plastics at all whether in the microwave or dishwasher (I am extremely GUILTY of this!)

http://www.seventhgeneration.com/learn/news/leachin-teach-guide-safe-plastics-kitchen

This guide reccommends some good products as alternatives and even some plastic ones that they think are ok:

http://www.thegreenguide.com/buying-guide/plastic-containers

http://www.thegreenguide.com/buying-guide/plastic-containers/smart_shoppers_list

My summary if you don't feel like reading the articles:

1. Do not reheat any plastic in the microwave. Use glass or ceramic dishes - even if the plastic says microwave safe.

2. Avoid plastic wrap if possible. Buy waxed paper instead if you can, and use a plate as a lid if it is for the top of a bowl or container.

3. Hand wash ALL plastic items that you use in your home and dispose when they seem worn. This goes for spatulas and such too. Maybe invest in a nice bamboo kitchen utensil set instead of plastic! They are great for nonstick and stainless steel.

Bamboo Utensil Set from Amazon

4. You just never know. There are not enough studies out suggesting that plastics are safe. Use stainless steel or glass containers!

Want a good alternative to those plastic storage containers that are safe and you can throw in the dishwasher? Here are some nice stainless steel containers (with plastic lids - but they are BPA free and you can just hand wash those right?)

or

http://www.reuseit.com/store/lunchbots-stainless-steel-food-container-trio-p-1743.html

Some great sites for product alternatives:

http://www.snacktaxi.com/

http://lifewithoutplastic.com/boutique/

http://www.reuseit.com/

There is probably a lot more to delve into with this topic, but I am trying to keep these posts short to keep people interested - did you at least question your own plastic practices?

We can't be perfect but we sure can try to at least think and question products we are using in our home and even subtle changes can help our health and environment.