Plastic containers play an important role in our daily lives, from food storage to kitchen utensils, plastic products are almost everywhere. However, many people may not know the shelf life of plastic containers. In fact, the safe use period of plastic containers involves two concepts: shelf life and service life. This article will take a deep look at the shelf life and service life of plastic containers, as well as how to ensure safe use.
1. Shelf life of plastic containers
Shelf life refers to the period during which a plastic container can maintain its performance and not deteriorate under proper storage conditions after it is produced and shipped from the factory. Generally speaking, the shelf life of high-quality plastic food storage products can last for several years. However, it should be noted that the shelf life of plastic containers made of different materials and manufacturing processes may vary. Therefore, when purchasing plastic containers, you should pay attention to the shelf life information on the product description or label.
For example, plastic bottles made of PET (polyethylene terephthalate) have been exposed to contain antimony, a heavy metal that may cause cancer. Even if the product meets the standards, overdue use may increase the potential risk of these harmful substances to the body.
2. The service life of plastic containers
The service life refers to the entire process from the beginning of use of a plastic container to the significant decline in performance or obvious deterioration. The service life of a plastic container is affected by many factors, including storage and use environment, temperature, humidity, light, exposure to chemicals, etc. For example, factors such as high temperature, acidity and grease may accelerate the aging and wear of plastics and shorten the service life.
To ensure the safe use of plastic containers, we need to pay attention to the following points:
- Check the condition of plastic containers: Before use, the storage container should be carefully checked for aging, cracking or deformation. Once these problems are found, stop using it immediately and replace it with a new container.
- Replace containers regularly: For food-grade plastic containers, it is recommended to replace them regularly to ensure food safety. At the same time, avoid reusing the same plastic container for a long time to avoid increasing the risk of harmful substances being released.
- Avoid harsh environments: Try to store plastic containers in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. High temperature, humidity and ultraviolet exposure will accelerate the aging and degradation of plastics.
- Proper cleaning and maintenance: Use mild detergent and clean water to clean plastic containers, and avoid using strong irritating detergents or disinfectants. After cleaning, wipe dry in time to avoid residual water stains or food residues.
3. Degradation and environmental impact of plastic containers
Plastic products require a long time to degrade, but the service life of plastic container products is very short. Plastic products are prone to aging after expiration and release substances that may be harmful to the human body. In addition, discarded plastic products will also have a serious impact on the environment. Therefore, the rational use and disposal of plastic containers is not only related to personal health, but also to environmental protection.
Digital recycling equipment provides a convenient solution for the disposal of discarded plastic products. These devices can recycle various plastic products including plastic toys, plastic bags, express plastic packaging, plastic containers, plastic bottles, etc., effectively reducing plastic pollution.
4. Conclusion
The safe use period of plastic containers involves two concepts: shelf life and service life. To ensure safe use, we need to pay attention to the condition and storage environment of plastic containers, replace containers regularly, and choose suitable alternatives. At the same time, it is the responsibility of each of us to reasonably dispose of discarded plastic products and reduce the impact on the environment.
Through the above discussion, we can better understand the shelf life and service life of plastic containers, so as to use and manage plastic products more scientifically in daily life.
