Plastic Wrap is commonly used to keep food fresh. Ralph Wiley is credited for discovering polyvinylidene chloride in 1933. He named the substance Eonite; researchers re-created the substances and named it Saran. The first Saran was a dark green greasy film that was used by the military; it was sprayed on fighter planes to guard against salty sea spray. Saran was developed more, and the researchers found a way to make Saran clear and odorless. After World War II, Saran Wrap was approved for food packaging and introduced to the public in 1953. Because of its chemical component, Saran wrap is capable of capturing and containing aromas and vapors.
Is it safe?
Plastic Wrap contains Polyvinyl chloride, a chemical that is toxic to people and the environment. These chemicals cause birth defects, skin diseases, cancer, deafness, as well as liver and spleen problems. Bisphenol A is another chemical that is commonly found in plastic wrap. EWG.org states on their website, “Low doses of BPA lead to a range of health problems, including birth defects of the male and female reproductive systems in laboratory animals.” These chemicals have caused consumers to make the choice of using natural ways to store food instead of plastic wrap.
Environmental Impact
Plastic wraps cannot be burned due to the harmful chemicals they emit. Synthetic materials do not appear in nature; due to this, there are no naturally occurring organisms that can break them down. This causes the plastic to begin breaking down after 500-700 years. Researchers estimate it could take plastic wrap over 1000 years to fully break down. Plastic releases chemicals and pollutes the earth.
Alternatives
Glass Jars
Food Storage Containers
Two Plates
Oil Cloth
Wax Cloth
Beeswax Wrap
Reusable Parchment Paper
Fabric Bowl Covers
Silicone Bowl Lids
Reusable Silicone Wrap
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