These days a video is going viral on social media, in which food items along with plastic bags are shown being put in a pan filled with boiling oil. Seeing this, many questions are arising in the minds of people. After all, how dangerous can it be to cook food by putting plastic in hot oil? When the bag melts, do the chemicals present in it get mixed with the food and can eating such food increase the risk of cancer?
Actually, it is not right to expose plastic to high heat. Due to this, some of the chemicals present in it can reach the food, hence cooking food in this way should be avoided. But does plastic really cause cancer? On this question, the American Cancer Society says that at present there is no strong evidence on the basis of which it can be said that microplastics cause cancer in humans. However, preliminary research has revealed the possibility of inflammation, damage to DNA and other changes in the body, which still need further study.
Why is it dangerous to put plastic in hot oil?
Plastic bags are generally used to keep goods or carry them from one place to another. They are not made for cooking by putting them in boiling oil. When such a bag is exposed to high heat, it may lose its shape, melt or begin to break.
Does plastic cause cancer?
According to Grok, some chemicals used in making plastics, such as plasticizers and other additives, can leach into food if misused. These may also include phthalates found in some types of plastics. Especially there is a possibility of some chemicals coming in contact with greasy foods like oil. However, it is not necessary that every plastic bag contains the same chemicals.
What does the American Cancer Society say?
According to the information from the US Department of Agriculture, if plastic packaging is heated too much and it starts melting or deteriorating, then some of the chemicals present in it can get into the food. The FDA and the American Cancer Society say that at present no solid scientific evidence has been found to prove that microplastics cause cancer in humans.
What are the rules of FSSAI?
FSSAI rules in India are also strict regarding the use of plastic in food items. Under the rules, carry bags made of recycled plastic cannot be used to pack, store or transport food items from one place to another.