You probably use your kitchen tools and packaging every single day without giving them much thought.
But did you know that common materials like silicone, aluminum foil, ceramics, and even your wooden spoon could be affecting your health if used the wrong way?
Here’s a practical guide with 10 essential points to keep your food – and family – safe.
Don’t let your cooking spoon sit in the pot
It may seem harmless, but leaving your spoon in a hot pot can cause harmful substances to leach into your food.
Also read: This Everyday Spice Is Showing Promise in Treating Cancer
Some spatulas and spoons aren’t meant to withstand prolonged high heat.
Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions, which may be printed or stamped on the packaging or the utensil itself.
Choose the right cling film and freezer bags
Old PVC-based cling film used to release harmful plasticizers into fatty foods.
While most modern wraps are now phthalate-free, it’s still important to check if it’s labeled “Microwave-safe” or marked with a pot and wave symbol.
Also read: These Tasty Snacks Keep Your Blood Sugar Steady
Also, avoid reusing old or questionable plastic wraps for food storage.
Be careful with ceramics and flea market finds
That charming ceramic bowl from your grandma or a vacation market might contain lead or cadmium in the glaze – especially if it’s brightly colored.
These heavy metals can transfer into your food. Check for the fork-and-glass symbol or ask the seller whether it’s food-safe.
Don’t drink or eat from old crystal glassware
Vintage crystal can contain lead that leaches into liquids. That elegant decanter might look pretty, but it’s best left for display.
Also read: Shocking Report: 77 % of Sunscreens Fail Safety Standards
Modern crystal is usually lead-free and marketed as “eco-crystal” or “environmentally friendly glass”. When in doubt, ask the retailer if it contains lead.
Only use food-safe paper towels
Many paper towels aren’t meant for food contact, especially recycled ones, which can contain chemical residues.
Always use rolls marked as food-safe or carrying an eco-label. And definitely avoid using newspaper to wrap or dry food – the ink can transfer directly to what you eat.
Bake your silicone molds before first use
Flexible baking molds made of silicone can release chemicals if not fully cured.
Also read: Doctors Warn: These Daily Habits Can Raise Your Cholesterol Fast
For added safety, “pre-bake” your silicone mold empty at 200°C (about 390°F) for a few hours before using it. And toss them out once they become worn or cracked.
Keep acidic foods away from aluminum
Tomatoes, citrus, and pickled items can dissolve aluminum from foil, trays, or pans. Avoid storing or wrapping acidic foods in aluminum overnight.
Instead, use glass, plastic, or porcelain containers – and bake with parchment paper or oven bags instead of foil for sour dishes.
Don’t overheat your Teflon pans
Teflon-coated pans are safe at normal cooking temperatures but can emit harmful fumes if overheated (above 260°C or 500°F).
Also read: Control Your Blood Sugar With These Simple Everyday Tips
If that happens, ventilate your kitchen well. Accidentally eating a small flake of the coating isn’t dangerous – it just passes through your system.
Oil your wooden utensils with food-safe oil
Wooden spoons, bowls, and cutting boards may be treated with non-food-safe oils. To maintain them properly, use a common cooking oil after thorough cleaning.
And only buy wooden tools labeled safe for food contact – not all wood finishes are kitchen-appropriate.
Don’t use hot tap water in food or drinks
Hot water from your faucet runs through pipes and heaters that can release metals like copper, nickel, and even lead.
Never use it for tea, coffee, baby formula, or cooking.
Instead, let cold water run briefly before using it. The exception is boiling water taps (like a Quooker), which are connected to the cold water line.
This article is based on information from the Danish Veterinary and Food Administration (Fødevarestyrelsen).