Is it advisable to use plastic spoons, ladles, and strainers for cooking?

Spoons, ladles, and strainers are common kitchen utensils nowadays, widely used in households and restaurants. However, should you use plastic spoons, ladles, and strainers for cooking? Let's find out the answer with Supermart Mytour in the following article.  

Is it advisable to use plastic spoons, ladles, and strainers for cooking?

Comparing to other cooking utensils like stainless steel, aluminum, or wood, plastic spoons, ladles, and strainers have their own advantages and disadvantages as follows:

Varied designs: There are many types of plastic spoons, ladles, and strainers with diverse colors and designs, allowing you to choose according to your personal preference and match your style.

Safe for non-stick surfaces: Plastic spoons, ladles, and strainers often have surfaces that won't scratch non-stick pots, pans, and cooking surfaces. This helps protect surfaces from damage and extends the lifespan of cookware.

Made from high-strength plastic materials: Spoons, ladles, and strainers are crafted from high-strength plastic materials, typically made from ABS or polypropylene (PP). These plastics are durable, non-brittle, and resistant to impact.

Plastic spoons, ladles, and strainers are popular cooking tools today

Lightweight and convenient: Plastic spoons, ladles, and strainers are often lightweight and easy to use. They not only facilitate easy stirring and food maneuvering but also help reduce fatigue during the cooking process.

Easy to clean and store: Plastic spoons, ladles, and strainers are usually easy to clean and store. They can be cleaned either in a dishwasher or by hand, and they are not affected by high temperatures during washing.

Limited heat resistance: Plastic spoons, ladles, and strainers often do not withstand heat as well as metal tools. Prolonged use at high temperatures can cause plastic deformation and melting, potentially impacting the user's health.

Limited heat resistance

Prone to scratches: Although they don't scratch non-stick surfaces, plastic spoons, ladles, and strainers are susceptible to scratching themselves. This can lead to damage on the plastic surface, creating a conducive environment for bacterial growth.

May contain additives: In some cases, plastic spoons, ladles, and strainers may contain additives such as BPA (Bisphenol A) or phthalates, which can be harmful to health with prolonged exposure.

Recently, the German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (Bfr) issued a warning regarding various plastic kitchen utensils like spoons, ladles, and strainers. It was found that these tools may contain harmful oligomers that leach into food when exposed to temperatures above 70 degrees Celsius.

Plastic spoons, ladles, and strainers may contain harmful oligomers

While plastic utensils may be advertised as durable, heat-resistant, and non-stick, it's crucial to note the inherent risks associated with certain types of plastic materials. Oligomers are chemical compounds that can pose health hazards when ingested, especially in high concentrations.

Therefore, it is advised not to use these plastic tools during cooking or exposure to hot food. High temperatures can cause oligomers to disperse and adhere to the food. The Bfr agency also suggests that governments should enhance control over the harmful oligomer content used by manufacturers in their products.

Avoid using plastic utensils when in contact with hot food

Currently, there is limited research on the impact of oligomers on human health. However, experts from Bfr estimate that swallowing a small amount of around 90 mg of oligomers could affect the health of an adult weighing 60 kg.

Therefore, to safeguard the health of oneself and the family, it's advisable to choose cooking utensils made from safe materials. Alternatively, only use plastic items for cold foods.

When selecting spoons, ladles, and strainers for use, consider the needs and personal preferences of both yourself and your family. Below are some important criteria to consider:

Natural and environmentally friendly materials: If you care about using natural materials and protecting the environment, opt for wooden spoons, ladles, and strainers. Wood does not scratch non-stick pots and pans and often provides stability during cooking.

Heat resistance and scratch resistance: If your family often uses regular aluminum or alloy pots and pans, consider using ladles and strainers made of metal. Metal materials have better scratch resistance and can withstand high temperatures without deformation.

It's recommended to purchase wooden or metal spoons, ladles, and strainers for use

Quality and origin: Before buying a product, check its origin and source. Choose reputable brands and ensure the product has clear labeling. This avoids health issues associated with using products of unknown origin.

Easy to clean and store: It's important to choose tools that can be easily cleaned and stored. Check the specific care and cleaning instructions for the ladles and strainers you choose.

This article titled 'Should you use plastic spoons, ladles, and strainers for cooking?' provides valuable insights for your reference. It is hoped that the information shared will enhance your understanding, making it easier to choose suitable and safe cooking utensils for your home kitchen.