Plastics
Plastic are everywhere and part of almost everything we do. They've transformed our lives. Yet you should know that plastics contain chemicals that, especially when heated, may leach out. When consumed or absorbed, these chemicals may mimic estrogens and increase the risk of breast cancer.
- Practice "safe microwaving". A "microwavable" or "microwave-safe" label only means that the product will not melt, crack, or fall apart when heated. These labels do not guarantee that the containers will not leach chemicals into foods when heated. It is best to heat foods in ceramics or oven-proof glass dishes with lids instead of plastic.
- Buy plastic wraps free of suspect plasticizers or buy polyethelene wrap. For a guide to information about different plastic wraps and everyday food storage containers, see checnet.org's chart.
- If in doubt about the contents of a plastic product, call the manufacturer.