What is cling film?
Cling film, also known as plastic wrap or food wrap, is a thin plastic film used to cover and preserve food.
How is cling film made?
Cling film is made from a type of plastic called polyvinyl chloride (PVC). PVC is a non-biodegradable plastic that takes hundreds of years to break down. To make cling film, PVC is melted and then extruded through a thin slit to create a thin film that is then rolled onto a cardboard tube.
Is cling film safe to use with food?
Most cling films are safe to use with food. However, there are certain types of cling films that are not safe to use with food. One example is PVC cling film. PVC cling film contains plasticizers and other chemicals that can leach into food when the film is heated. These chemicals can be harmful to human health, especially when consumed over a long period of time. As such, it is best to use cling film made from other materials, such as low-density polyethylene (LDPE) or polyvinylidene chloride (PVDC).
How to use cling film safely?
To use cling film safely, it is important to follow these tips:
- Use cling film made from LDPE or PVDC
- Avoid using cling film in the microwave unless the product is labeled as microwave-safe
- Do not use cling film in the oven or on hot surfaces
- Avoid wrapping acidic foods in cling film, as this can cause leaching of harmful chemicals
- Do not reuse cling film that has been used to wrap raw meat or other perishable foods
What are the alternatives to cling film?
If you are looking for an alternative to cling film, there are several options available:
- Reusable food wraps made from beeswax, cotton, or silicone
- Glass containers with lids
- Metal containers with lids
- Bamboo or stainless steel straws instead of plastic
