When you’ve cooked a large batch of delicious, piping-hot soup, it’s common to wonder: Is it safe to put hot soup in plastic containers? Depending on the type of plastic this can be a risk to your health as chemical leaching is a risk with high temperatures. Given the rising concerns about plastic usage, health, and the environment this topic is pertinent to many. In this blog post, we will explore further the safety of putting hot soup into plastic containers, examining the type of plastics used for food storage, the potential risks, and safer alternatives.
A Closer Look at the Types of Plastics Commonly Used for Food Storage
Plastics, despite their ubiquity and convenience, are far from being a homogeneous group when it comes to their usage for food storage. Depending on the type of plastic, they can have very different characteristics, some of which may make them more or less suitable for storing hot food items such as soup.
One of the more common types of plastic used for food storage is polypropylene. Often marked with a recycling number 5 on the bottom of the container, polypropylene has a high heat tolerance, as stated by Palmetto Industries, making it one of the safer choices for storing and reheating hot foods. It is commonly found in reusable food storage containers and is also frequently used in disposable food packaging. Polypropylene containers can generally handle the heat of a dishwasher, making them not just convenient but also relatively easy to sanitize.
Polycarbonate is another type of plastic commonly found in food storage containers. Known for its strength and durability, it can withstand high temperatures, according to A&C Plastics Inc., which makes it a popular choice for applications requiring heat resistance. However, it has been at the center of a growing controversy due to concerns about the potential leaching of Bisphenol A (BPA), a chemical that has been linked to various health issues. While not all polycarbonate containers contain BPA, the potential risk has led many consumers to look for BPA-free alternatives.
Examining the Potential Risks of Storing Hot Soup in Plastic Containers
The primary concern that arises with the idea of storing hot soup or other hot foods in plastic containers revolves around the issue of chemical leaching. High temperatures can cause plastics to release unwanted chemicals into the food they contain, which may then be consumed, leading to potential health risks.
The chemical Bisphenol A (BPA), found in certain types of plastics, has been a particular focus of research and concern. Some studies, such as The Endocrine Disruptor Bisphenol A (BPA) Exerts a Wide Range of Effects in Carcinogenesis and Response to Therapy, suggest that BPA could have an impact on the endocrine system, potentially interfering with hormone regulation in the human body. While the precise health effects are still a subject of ongoing research, these concerns have led to an increase in the production and usage of BPA-free plastics. However, it’s worth noting that even BPA-free plastics can potentially release other chemicals when exposed to heat.
Moreover, certain types of plastics, like polystyrene (commonly known as Styrofoam) and PVC (polyvinyl chloride), are particularly unsuitable for hot foods. These plastics can leach a range of potentially harmful chemicals, especially when heated (Leachate From Expanded Polystyrene Cups Is Toxic to Aquatic Invertebrates (Ceriodaphnia dubia)), and should never be used for storing or heating hot soup.
Exploring Safe Alternatives and Best Practices for Storing Hot Soup
If the potential risks associated with storing hot soup in plastic containers concern you, there are several safer alternatives available. Glass and stainless steel containers, for instance, do not contain potentially harmful chemicals that could leach into your food. They are stable at high temperatures and are also non-reactive, meaning they won’t interact with the food stored inside them.
Even ceramic containers, provided they are lead-free, can be a safe and aesthetically pleasing option. These alternatives not only offer peace of mind but are also more environmentally friendly than their plastic counterparts, as they are more durable and less likely to end up in landfills.
If you still prefer to use plastic for its light weight and convenience, there are ways to mitigate potential risks. Ensure that you’re using a plastic container that is specifically designed for hot food storage. Avoid pouring soup that is still boiling directly into a plastic container. Instead, allow the soup to cool down a bit before transferring it to the container. This will minimize the heat exposure of the plastic and thereby reduce the potential for chemical leaching.
When reheating soup in a plastic container, always ensure that the container is labeled as microwave-safe. Containers without this designation may not only warp or melt under high heat but may also leach undesirable chemicals into the food.
Summary
The safety of storing hot soup in plastic containers is a topic that requires a bit more thought and consideration than simply pouring the soup in and hoping for the best. The type of plastic used, the temperature of the soup, and even the method used for reheating all play a role in determining whether or not this common practice is safe. While certain types of plastics, such as polypropylene, are generally considered safe for hot food storage, the potential risk of chemical leaching cannot be completely eliminated. To sidestep this concern entirely, consider using alternatives like glass or stainless steel, which are free of these risks. If plastic is your preferred choice, ensure that the soup has cooled slightly before you store it, and only use microwave-safe containers for reheating. Being mindful of these factors can make a significant contribution to your health, safety, and peace of mind. After all, enjoying a delicious bowl of soup should be a comforting experience, free of concerns about the container it was stored in.
Disclaimer: The information contained within this blog is intended for general informational and entertainment purposes only. It does not constitute professional advice and should not be relied upon as such. While we strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information, we make no guarantees about the completeness, reliability, or accuracy of this information.