Plastic bottles are objects that can be seen everywhere in daily life, such as plastic bottles for drinking beverages, edible oil, plastic bottles specially used for whole grains or food, etc. All in all, plastic bottles are widely used. However, plastic bottles are not properly stored, and if they are used for too long, harmful substances are easily produced, which is detrimental to the health of the body. Some people think that repeated use of plastic bottles or food that is too hot may cause cancer, is this true?

Is it dangerous to use plastic bottles?

On the Internet, if the disposable plastic bottle marked with “1” at the bottom is used repeatedly, the plasticizer in it will be separated, the DNA in the body will mutate, and the risk of cancer will be increased.

In fact, this number + triangle mark is to facilitate the identification of plastic types during recycling. The material of this kind of plastic bottle is mainly PET, which has a relatively high degree of heat resistance and can generally reach above 70 °C, but such plastic bottles cannot be used repeatedly because they contain plasticizers, which are carcinogenic to the human body. It can’t be used to put seasonings or edible oil, and it can’t be placed on the side of the stove, so as to avoid the temperature is too high, and the plastic bottle is more likely to separate out the plasticizer, which will accelerate the spoilage of the edible oil and damage the body’s health.

Plasticizer is a kind of plasticizer, its function is to improve plastic Elasticity, extended service life, its composition is mainly phthalates. Plasticizers are classified as Group 2B carcinogens, which means they may cause cancer in humans, although evidence is limited. Plasticizers need to reach a certain amount before they can harm the body, but there is insufficient evidence of carcinogenicity in humans.

What are the real carcinogens?

1. Moldy chopsticks and cutting boards

Most household chopsticks are wooden or bamboo Yes, put it directly in the chopstick cage after washing, which will easily cause the chopsticks to become moldy and breed aflatoxin. We all know that aflatoxin is a carcinogen with strong toxicity. Long-term intake can increase the risk of liver cancer and gastric cancer. Aflatoxin cannot be removed even by high temperature and sun exposure, so moldy chopsticks and cutting boards should be replaced in time. It is worth reminding that chopsticks and cutting boards should be placed in a ventilated place after washing, and put away after drying.

2. Oil pot that has not been washed for a long time

Few people have the habit of cleaning oil pots, but the edible oil in it is prone to oxidation and rancidity when exposed to sunlight, air, and continuous high temperature. Frequent consumption of such edible oils can easily cause diarrhea, nausea and vomiting, damage the liver and kidneys, and even increase the risk of liver cancer. Therefore, the oil pot should be washed once every 1 to 3 months, and it should be thrown away immediately after finding that the cooking oil has a savory smell.

How to use plastic products correctly?

1. Do not use mineral water bottles for a long time

Some people are accustomed to using mineral water bottles for cooking oil or wine, Seasonings, etc., can be temporarily stored, but cannot be used for a long time. At the same time, the number of uses should be controlled, generally 1 to 2 times. Also, don’t leave plastic bottles near the stovetop or other places that are too hot.

2. Choose plastic containers from big brands strong>

When purchasing plastic containers, you should choose carefully, smell whether there is peculiar smell, and whether there are black spots. If there is peculiar smell or black spots, it means that it is made of recycled waste, especially food packaging should be used with caution, and plastic containers of big brands should be selected as much as possible.

3. Choose the right plastic bag

According to the material classification, the plastic bags on the market There are two types. One is PVC, which is sticky to the touch, and the sound is small and dull when shaken, which should not be in contact with food; the other is PE material, which is lubricated and tough to the touch, and makes a crisp sound when shaken, which can contact food.

Message from the doctor

Try not to heat plastic products, In order to avoid the release of harmful substances, which can cause cancer and damage the health of the body. In addition to the heated plastic products, you should also pay attention to the chopsticks and cutting boards in the kitchen. If you find signs of mold, you should throw them away as soon as possible and do not use them again. Also, if the oil pot is not washed for a long time, it will lead to the growth of a large number of bacteria, which will cause health problems. hidden danger. In addition, try to choose food-grade plastic products for food, or you can choose glass bottles or ceramics, which are relatively safe.

Family doctor online feature, unauthorized reprint