Alternatives to plastic to take care of your health and the planet

It is estimated that there are 8.3 billion tons of plastic waste, which would cover the surface of a country like Argentina. Every year 8 million tons of garbage are thrown into the sea. These plastic materials have passed to the food chainBecause fish and other marine creatures eat plastic from the oceans and we eat them. Therefore, while we wait for a change in environmental policies that curb such amount of waste, we can make changes in daily habits and use sustainable packaging.

In addition, it is advisable to create a habit from an early age since children are large consumers of disposable products, whose first component is plastic. water bottles, sandwiches wrapped in plastic wrap, plastic glasses, cutlery and plates, processed product wrappers… these are just some of them. Let's get to know healthier alternatives at the same time as ecological that will avoid both Pollution of the planet like the.

Avoid BPA (Bisphenol A)

The BPA It is found in a myriad of products, also in plastic packaging. According to current regulations, the use of BPA it is not prohibited, but in 2011, the European Union prohibited its use In the manufacture of baby bottles, as studies relate it to thyroid problems, anxiety, allergies, hypertension, anxiety, certain types of cancer, impaired immune function ...

The problem occurs, not because of the presence of BPA in the plastic, but because when comes into contact with food they can go to the same; This is what is called migration. These migrations occur due to various factors:

• Exhibithion time: the longer the time exposed, the greater the migration
• Deterioration of the plastic
• Temperature: the higher the temperature, the higher the migration
• pH: the higher the acidity of the food, the higher the migration
• Contact of carbonated drinks.

Alternatives to plastic for eating and drinking

Replace plastic bottles

Plastic bottles should only be used once because it contains BPA and if it is filled, the chances of migration and passage into the body increase, so opt for a reusable bottle it is a good investment. What reusable material can we use with the bottles?

• Glass: it is an excellent material, as it does not react when in contact with liquids, it is recyclable, easy to clean and you can see what is inside. The advantage of the crystal is that, although time passes, does not flavor liquids containing. A inconvenient It is the weight and it is relatively easy to break, although some brands have chosen to "wrap" the glass in silicone, which also insulates from heat.
• Stainless steel: that material is also BPA free. Furthermore, it is strong and durable, very useful in the case of needing to keep the water fresh and appetizing because steel is the best maintains the water temperature, be it hot or cold.
• Silicone bottles: The advantage is that, even if they are accidentally dropped, crushed or stepped on, they do not break, as they are flexible, unbreakable and light. Also free of BPA, latex and, so it can be useful in children with allergies.

Crockery and cutlery

In houses with children it is usual to have a special plastic tableware and cutlery for the little ones since they do not break and usually have pictures. However, it is preferable opt for other, higher-quality, BPA-free materials: bamboo, bamboo fiber, stainless steel or silicone.

• The bamboo: is a material free of BPA, PVC and phthalates (gives flexibility to plastic). Is durable, biodegradable and considered eco-friendly because bamboo plants grow fast, need little water and are resistant to pests so few pesticides are used. Dishwasher safe, but do not heat in the microwave. Bamboo fiber has similar characteristics, although it is easier to splinter if hit.

Ecological drinking straws

Plastic straws are the 4% of the planet's plastic waste, so choose one that is not only biodegradable (paper), but is also reusable and BPA free. Again we can find straws made of stainless steel, bamboo, silicone and even glass. They all come with a brush to clean the inside.

• BPA or bisphenol A It is found in many plastic food or liquid containers, and studies link it to different
• Glass, stainless steel or silicone They are healthy and ecological alternatives to plastic packaging.
• The bamboo It is also a good option to avoid the plastic cutlery and tableware of the little ones.

Diploma in Human Nutrition and Dietetics Master in Pediatric Nutrition