GON Reader Question
Your article today leads to a question I've been having about older plastic containers, think Tupperware ca. 1980 (or older!).
I love my Tupperware and would use the same containers for the rest of my life, but I do wonder about the safety of plastic that's been around that long. I NEVER microwave in it or any plastic if I can help it.
That all being said,
is it time to think about trendier but perhaps safer containers? Thanks!
-- Shari, Vestal, NY
Maria Gracia's Response
Hi Shari,
It's great that you're mindful of the safety concerns surrounding older plastic containers like Tupperware from the 1980s or older.
The primary issue with these older plastics is that they may contain
BPA (bisphenol A), a chemical commonly used in the production of plastics at that time. BPA is known to leach into food and beverages, especially when the plastic is exposed to heat, acidic foods, or harsh detergents over time.
From a bit of research today, I found
out that the Tupperware brand didn't eliminate BPA until 2010.
Why is BPA bad? Well, BPA is classified as an endocrine disruptor, meaning it can interfere with the body's hormonal system, potentially leading to various health problems. Research suggests that exposure to BPA may be linked to reproductive issues, developmental problems
in children, certain cancers, and other adverse health effects.
Fortunately, there are many safer alternatives available now, such as glass containers or plastics labeled as BPA-free. These options offer peace of mind regarding food safety without compromising convenience or durability.
So yes, it might be time to consider updating your containers to something trendier and, more importantly, safer for your health.
I hope this information helps!
