What are the best materials for food-storage containers?
Materials that resist food stains and odors are best for food-storage containers. Two types of plastics used in manufacturing food-storage products are polystyrene and polycarbonate. Polystyrene is a strong plastic that resists food stains and odors. Polystyrene canisters and storers are great for use in the pantry, in the refrigerator, or on the countertop. Polycarbonate is an even stronger plastic that also resists food stains and odors, has the look of high-quality glass, and is microwave and dishwasher safe. Is chemical leaching really a problem?Chemical leaching is a problem when plastic food-storage containers are used in a fashion other than the intended use. Packaging and inserts on food-storage containers should clearly explain a product’s intended use. Many plastic containers, such as margarine tubs and carryout containers from restaurants, are intended for single use. Although these containers are convenient and widely available, they were not intended to be washed, let alon