Recently, a 3-minute and 1-second video has been circulating online, warning that "plastic bags should never be placed in the refrigerator, as low temperatures can cause the plastic to crack, releasing harmful substances into the food and posing health risks." The video also claims that "using plastic bags to hold hot food will release harmful substances." These claims have sparked widespread discussion, but are they true?
Screenshots of messages circulating on communication apps and social media platforms (Photo: Retrieved from Taiwan FactCheck Center website)
Expert Explanation
Toxicology experts explain that commonly used plastic bags on the market are made of materials such as high-density polyethylene (HDPE), low-density polyethylene (LDPE), and polypropylene (PP). These materials do not contain phthalate plasticizers, and therefore, do not pose significant toxicity to the human body. Experts emphasize that these materials can withstand low temperatures, and refrigerating them will not cause plastic bags to break or decompose, so there is no need to worry about substances leaching into food during the refrigeration process.
Plastic Bags and Health Risks
Although storing food in plastic bags in the refrigerator does not pose an immediate health risk, experts recommend using food-grade ziplock bags or food storage containers for long-term refrigeration. This approach is not only safer but also helps extend the shelf life of food. Regarding the issue of using plastic bags for hot food, while most modern plastic bags do not contain plasticizers, the Ministry of Health and Welfare’s Food and Drug Administration (FDA) still advises the public to avoid using plastic bags to carry or package hot food, as different plastic materials have varying heat resistance. It is recommended to minimize prolonged contact between plastic bags and hot food.
Conclusion
The claims in the circulating video are somewhat exaggerated. Placing plastic bags in the refrigerator does not pose a major health threat. However, for safety and food preservation purposes, suitable containers should be used for long-term refrigeration. Using plastic bags for hot food does carry potential risks and should be avoided. Therefore, the information in the video is classified as "partially incorrect." The public is advised to verify such claims carefully.
