Should people stop using plastic containers and plastic wrap when storing or heating up food?
The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) regulates food packaging materials. Plastics for food packaging undergo tests to determine the extent of migration and the potential toxicity of leaching chemicals. These data are reviewed by FDA prior to marketing, and specific regulations are developed listing the chemicals that are permitted for use in contact with food. FDA has found currently approved food packaging plastics to be safe, primarily because they migrate to food in only trivial amounts. FDA is continuing to investigate the migration levels of certain food packaging materials into food and will take additional regulatory action should the data indicate potential health risks. Because food package components are tested under conditions reflecting each container’s intended use, it is important to use plastic food containers only as intended. Food should be heated only in containers that are clearly intended for use at elevated temperatures. Packaged food with labeling instructions f
