A recent report published by Greenpeace highlights the health risks associated with the use of plastic food packaging, particularly for ready-to-eat meals. The study reviews several scientific studies indicating that plastic containers can release microplastics and chemical substances into food, especially when they are heated in a microwave or oven.
This process, known as the migration of substances from packaging into food, can increase significantly at high temperatures.
Thousands of Chemicals Associated with Plastic
According to the report, more than 1,300 chemicals originating from plastics used in food-contact materials have been identified in the human body. Some of these substances have been linked in scientific studies to potential health effects, including hormonal disorders, fertility problems, and metabolic diseases.
Among the compounds frequently mentioned are phthalates and bisphenols, chemicals known for their potential to disrupt the endocrine system.
Why Experts Are Concerned
Experts warn that heating food in plastic packaging may accelerate the release of microplastic particles into food. In some experiments cited in the report, heating plastic containers in a microwave resulted in the release of hundreds of thousands of microscopic particles in just a few minutes.
With the growing consumption of ready-made and delivered meals, these findings raise concerns about the safety of commonly used food packaging.
What Consumers Can Do
To reduce exposure to microplastics and chemical substances, experts recommend a few simple measures:
- avoid heating food directly in plastic packaging
- transfer food to glass or stainless-steel containers before heating
- reduce the consumption of heavily plastic-packaged foods
Full article available on Affidia Journal.