Some of the deadly toxic that seeps unknowingly into our bodies (on a daily basis) is right under our noses; and our hands! Thanks to the helpful information from The Toxics Coalition, Local Green Circle is able to arm our readers with some interesting and important information.
Below you will find some of the very pots, pans, containers and plastic wrap you use daily, could be potentially hazardous to yours and your family's health.
Pots And Pans:
- Choose cast iron and stainless steel pots and pans and glass bakeware.
- Avoid products with nonstick treatments such as Teflon. If you already own products with nonstick treatments, be sure not to let them heat to above 450F. Do not leave non-stick cookware unattended on the stove, or use non-stick cookware in hot ovens or grills. Discard products if nonstick coatings show signs of deterioration.
Dishware:
- Choose glass, stoneware, or ceramic dishware. Ceramic dishware labeled as meeting California’s Proposition 65 requirements leach less lead than those approved by the FDA and are preferable.
- Avoid old, handmade, or imported ceramic dishware, which may leach more lead than permitted by the FDA. Any ceramic items that show chalky gray residue after washing should not be used, and leaded crystalware should also be avoided.
Food and Drink Plastic Containers:
- Choose glass if possible. Otherwise, choose plastic containers with the recycling symbols 1, 2, 4, or 5. You can usually find these numbers at the bottom of the containers. When microwaving, choose glass or lead-free ceramic dishware, and use waxed paper or paper towels instead of cling wrap. Parents, be sure not to heat bottles made of unsafe plastic in the microwave. Glass leftover containers with removable plastic tops are available in various sizes and are convenient for microwaving leftovers.
- Avoid containers made of PVC (3), polycarbonate (7), or polystyrene (6). If you have plastic containers that aren’t marked with recycling symbols, check with the manufacturer.
Plastic Wrap:
- Choose wraps made of polyethylene, such as GLAD and Saran. Cling wrap for residential use is free of PVC.
- Avoid wraps made of PVC. Cling wrap for commercial use may contain PVC.
PVC, or polyvinyl chloride, is found in vinyl and emits the toxin dioxin when produced. It also contains phthalates, a plasticizing and softening chemical. It's commonly found in toys, shower curtains, window blinds, and vinyl furniture covers. It's also found in plastics with the recycling symbol 3.
Choose alternatives to products made of PVC whenever possible. This includes items such as straws, aprons, gloves, drawer liners, and tablecloths.
Learn more from Washington Toxics Coalition, August, 2009