How Do You Safely Clean and Reuse Plastic Food Containers?

With the increasing awareness of environmental protection, more and more consumers tend to reuse plastic food containers to reduce waste. However, improper cleaning methods may lead to chemical residues or bacterial growth, threatening health.

Step 1: Identify the container material

The resin identification code (1-7) on the bottom of the plastic container is the key to judging its safety:

No. 1 (PET): Commonly found in beverage bottles, it has poor heat resistance and is not recommended for reuse.

No. 2 (HDPE) and No. 5 (PP): High temperature and corrosion resistance, safe for reuse (such as fresh-keeping boxes, microwave lunch boxes).

No. 3 (PVC), No. 6 (PS) and No. 7 (other types): May contain bisphenol A (BPA) or phthalates, so use with caution.

Pro Tip: The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends choosing PP (No. 5) containers marked "food grade" or "BPA-Free".

Step 2: Scientific cleaning process

Pretreatment: Empty the remaining food immediately to avoid grease solidification.

Decontamination: Scrub with neutral detergent and soft sponge, do not use steel wool (scratches can easily hide bacteria).
Disinfection:
Boiling water immersion method: PP containers can be boiled for 1-2 minutes to sterilize.
White vinegar solution: Soak in 1:1 ratio of vinegar and water for 15 minutes to remove odor and mold.
Drying: Dry upside down or wipe with a clean paper towel to avoid bacteria breeding in a humid environment.
Avoid three major misunderstandings
Microwave heating of covered containers: Steam pressure may cause deformation or release of harmful substances, and the lid must be opened when heating.
Use bleach: Chlorine residues may contaminate food and damage the plastic structure.
Reuse of damaged containers: Cracked or fogged surfaces will accelerate the migration of chemicals and need to be replaced in time.
When should containers be eliminated?
According to a study in the journal Food Packaging Materials Safety, the life of plastic containers depends on the frequency of use and maintenance:
Physical aging: Replace when deformation, discoloration or scratches are obvious.
Chemical aging: Long-term storage of acidic or high-fat foods may accelerate the degradation of plastic. It is recommended to replace it every 6-12 months.