Freezing food items is a great way to extend their shelf life. This process is easy and convenient, especially if you have a busy lifestyle. However, it’s essential to use the right equipment to ensure that the food remains safe and doesn’t get contaminated by the container it’s stored in. One of the most common containers used for freezing food items is plastic. If you’re not sure whether your plastic container is freezer-safe or not, this article will guide you on how to tell.
Freezing food in a container that isn’t safe can be disastrous. The plastic can break or crack when it contracts and expands due to the temperature changes, resulting in leaks and spills. Furthermore, non-freezer safe plastic can release chemicals into the food when exposed to extreme temperatures, jeopardizing your health. Therefore, it’s crucial to know how to identify freezer-safe plastic containers to ensure that you freeze food safely.
Understanding Freezer-safe Plastic Material
Understanding freezer-safe plastic material is crucial when it comes to storing food items in the freezer. Freezer-safe plastics are specially designed to withstand the extreme temperatures of the freezer, ranging from -18°C to -40°C. These plastics are made from materials that resist impact, cracking or becoming brittle at these sub-zero temperatures, allowing them to safely hold food items for extended periods.
Some common freezer-safe plastic materials include polyethylene (PE), polypropylene (PP), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and polycarbonate (PC). These materials have different properties that make them suitable for various types of food storage. For instance, PE is a flexible material that is ideal for storing solid and liquid foods, while PP is more rigid and therefore better suited for storing liquids and semi-solid foods. In summary, understanding the type of plastic material that comprises a container is the first step in determining whether it is freezer-safe or not.
ASTM D1709: The Freezer-safe Standard for Plastics
ASTM D1709 is an international standard for measuring the impact resistance of plastic films. It is commonly used to test the strength of a plastic container and to determine whether it can be safely used in the freezer. The ASTM D1709 test method helps determine the amount of pressure that a plastic container can withstand before it breaks or cracks.
When shopping for plastic containers for use in the freezer, look for labels that indicate that they have been tested and certified against this standard. This will ensure that the plastic container can withstand the extreme temperature changes in the freezer without breaking or cracking. The ASTM D1709 standard provides a reliable way to determine if a plastic container is freezer-safe and up to the task of preserving your food.
Look for Freezer Safe Labels and Symbols on Plastic Containers
When you are thinking of buying a plastic container to store food in the freezer, make sure you check for the freezer safe labels and symbols on the packaging. These labels and symbols are usually printed or embossed on the bottom or the side of the container and indicate that the products are safe to use in the freezer.
The commonly used symbols for freezer safe containers include the snowflake symbol and the words “freezer safe” or “safe for freezer use.” These symbols are the industry recognized standard for indicating whether a plastic container can be stored in the freezer without the risk of damage or contamination. So, always check for these symbols and labels before purchasing any plastic container for your freezer.
What Happens When You Freeze Non-freezer Safe Plastic Containers?
When you freeze non-freezer safe plastic containers, they can crack or break easily. This is because plastic containers are not designed to withstand extreme changes in temperature. As the temperature drops, the plastic becomes more rigid, which can cause it to become brittle and shatter.
Additionally, freezing non-freezer safe plastic can cause it to leach toxic chemicals into your food. Plasticizers, such as phthalates and bisphenol A (BPA), can migrate into your food and contaminate it. These chemicals have been linked to a range of health problems, including cancer, developmental issues, and reproductive harm. Therefore, it is crucial to always check if a plastic container is freezer safe before using it to store food in the freezer.
Testing Freezer Safety of Plastic Containers At Home
Testing freezer safety of plastic containers at home is an important step to ensure that your food is stored safely without any health hazards. One common method to test freezer safety is to fill it with water and leave it in the freezer for a day. After this, check for any cracks, distortions or signs of leaks. This simple yet effective test can help prevent any damage to your food and freezer.
Another alternative method to test the freezer safety of plastic containers is to wrap the container with a damp cloth or paper towel and freeze it. After 24 hours, take the container out and check for any signs of moisture or frost outside the container. If there is no moisture or frost build-up, the container is freezer safe. It is important to note that not all plastic containers are created equal, and some may not hold up well in extreme temperatures. Therefore, it is essential to always check for freezer-safe labels or consult the manufacturer’s manual before freezing any container.
Tips for Proper Storage of Plastic Containers in the Freezer
Proper storage of plastic containers in the freezer is essential to ensure that the food remains fresh and free from contamination. Here are some tips to help you store your plastic containers safely in the freezer.
Firstly, always make sure that the container is completely cool before placing it in the freezer. This will prevent the container from cracking due to temperature shock. Secondly, always leave some space in the container as the food may expand when frozen. It is also important to label the container with the name and date of the food item, so that you can easily keep track of its freshness. Thirdly, store the containers in a flat and stable position in the freezer to prevent any spills or leaks. Lastly, never use damaged or cracked containers for storing food in the freezer as it can lead to contamination and spoilage of food. By following these simple tips, you can ensure that your plastic containers remain safe and effective for longer periods.
Alternatives to Plastic Containers for Freezing Food.
Alternatives to plastic containers for freezing food include glass containers, silicone bags, stainless steel containers, and aluminum foil. Glass containers are non-toxic and can withstand extreme temperatures, making them a great alternative to plastic containers. Ensure that the glass container is labeled as freezer-safe before using it for freezing food.
Silicone bags are also a popular alternative to plastic containers. They are lightweight, easy to clean, and reusable. Silicone bags are particularly ideal for freezing liquids, sauces, and soup. Stainless steel containers are another option for freezing food. They are durable, long-lasting, and scratch-resistant. Finally, aluminum foil can be used as a wrap for freezing food. It is flexible, easy to use, and can be cut to size. However, it is important to note that using aluminum foil frequently for freezing can cause freezer burn.
Verdict
It is important to ensure that plastic containers used for freezing food are safe and free from harmful chemicals. The easiest way to know if a container is freezer-safe is by checking the label. However, if a container lacks a label or is unclear, it is important to look out for the food grade symbol, as containers carrying this symbol are safe to use in the freezer. Additionally, it is important to avoid using containers made of non-food grade plastic, as these are likely to leach harmful chemicals into the food.
In conclusion, ensuring that plastic containers used for freezing food are safe is crucial for the health and safety of individuals. Therefore, checking the label and seeking out the food grade symbol are crucial steps in avoiding harmful chemicals in food. By keeping these factors in mind, individuals can feel confident about their food safety and wellbeing when freezing their meals.