[China Packaging Network News] Food packaging is an essential part of our daily lives, but many common packages can pose hidden safety risks. It's important to be aware of these issues and make informed choices when purchasing and using food products. Here are some key food packaging safety concerns you should know about.
Straws: Choose clear ones
Plastic straws often have a strange smell or taste, which may indicate they are made from recycled or low-quality plastics. According to national standards, food-grade plastic straws should be odorless. If they smell bad, they might contain harmful substances. Some manufacturers use dyes to mask inferior materials, making colorful straws more dangerous. When drinking hot beverages with straws, harmful chemicals can leach into the drink, potentially harming your liver and kidneys. It's best to avoid disposable straws whenever possible and choose transparent, individually wrapped options.
Paper Cups: Avoid printed bottoms
The new national standard for paper cups has been in place for over six months, yet some cups still feature printed patterns on the bottom. To stay safe, look for cups where the rim is at least 15 mm away from the body and there’s no pattern within 10 mm of the rim.
Cans: Be cautious with ring printing
Most canned drinks come with a pull tab that can easily collect dirt and bacteria during transport. Drinking directly from the can can lead to illness. Additionally, some cans have ink-printed messages inside the ring, which may be harmful to health. Always open the can carefully and pour the contents into a clean glass before drinking.
Stainless Steel Pots: Check for manganese content
Stainless steel contains trace elements like chromium and nickel. However, some manufacturers add excessive manganese to reduce costs, which can affect corrosion resistance and cause health issues such as nausea, vomiting, and digestive problems. Always ask for a quality test report and avoid hitting or scratching the pot.
Bagged Milk: Wash the package before drinking
Milk bags often have printed labels that may contain harmful substances like lead. Long-term exposure can lead to poisoning and damage to the digestive system. Before drinking, clean the bag, cut it with clean scissors, and pour the milk into a cup.
Plastic Wrap: Avoid oily foods
Plasticizers in cling film can leach into fatty foods, leading to long-term health risks, including weakened immunity and damage to the cardiovascular, liver, and urinary systems. National regulations limit their use to non-oily foods, but they are still commonly found in food wraps and containers.
Bottle Caps: Wipe the mouth after opening
The inner cap of bottled drinks can accumulate dust and bacteria. After unscrewing, wipe the bottle mouth with a sterile cloth before drinking. If you notice mold or contamination, do not consume the beverage.
Fruit and Vegetable Labels: Be wary of adhesives
Tapes and labels used to bundle fruits and vegetables may contain harmful chemicals like benzene, which can seep into the food. If you buy labeled produce, it's best to peel it before eating.
Tin Foil: Avoid adding seasoning
Using tin foil while cooking can release toxic lead compounds, especially when exposed to acidic ingredients like lemon juice. Instead, use vegetable leaves or other natural alternatives to avoid contamination.
Plastic Bags: Check thickness
According to national guidelines, plastic shopping bags must be at least 0.025 mm thick. Thin bags are not only harmful to the environment but also pose health risks. Avoid using non-compliant plastic bags whenever possible.
Other Issues: Watch out for misleading labels
Many food packages fail to meet labeling standards, with incorrect information or exaggerated claims. Always check if the quantity listed matches the actual amount and ensure all required details—such as ingredients, expiration dates, and nutritional information—are clearly displayed. If you find discrepancies, report them to 12315 immediately.
By being aware of these potential hazards, you can make safer choices and protect yourself and your family from unnecessary health risks.
Guangzhou Liben Plastic Industry Co., LTD , https://www.libenbaby.com