Yes, you can generally put a plastic container in the fridge, provided it is made from materials safe for food and beverage storage.
Understanding Plastic Types for Refrigerator Use
Most plastic containers are designed to be food-safe and can be stored in the refrigerator without issues. The key is to ensure the plastic material is appropriate for food contact and cold temperatures. This often means looking for containers made from food-grade plastic.
The reference specifically notes that plastic water bottles are generally safe for refrigerator storage, especially if they are made from materials like PET (polyethylene terephthalate). This principle extends to other food containers.
Different types of plastic are identified by a recycling symbol, usually a number inside a triangle. Knowing these codes can help you determine their suitability for food storage in the fridge.
Common Plastic Codes and Refrigerator Safety
| Recycling Code | Plastic Type | Refrigerator Use | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | PET (Polyethylene Terephthalate) | ✅ Safe | Commonly used for water bottles, soda bottles, and some food jars. Generally safe for single-use and short-term refrigeration. |
| #2 | HDPE (High-Density Polyethylene) | ✅ Safe | Found in milk jugs, juice bottles, and some food storage containers. Highly safe, durable, and widely recyclable. |
| #3 | PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride) | ⚠️ Caution | Less common for food storage due to potential for leaching chemicals. Often found in cling film. Avoid direct food contact and long-term storage if possible. |
| #4 | LDPE (Low-Density Polyethylene) | ✅ Safe | Used for plastic bags, squeeze bottles, and some food wraps. Generally safe for refrigerator use. |
| #5 | PP (Polypropylene) | ✅ Safe | Widely used for food storage containers (like Tupperware), yogurt cups, and margarine tubs. Very safe, durable, and resistant to heat (making it suitable for microwave reheating after refrigeration, if marked). |
| #6 | PS (Polystyrene) | ⚠️ Caution | Often found in disposable cups, plates, and take-out containers (e.g., styrofoam). Can leach chemicals, especially when exposed to heat or oily foods. Best avoided for long-term food storage in the fridge. |
| #7 | Other (Mixed Plastics) | ⚠️ Caution | This category includes various plastics, including polycarbonates (which historically contained BPA) and bioplastics. If using a #7 container, look for "BPA-free" labels to ensure safety, especially for food storage. |
Tips for Safe Plastic Container Use in the Fridge
To ensure safe and effective use of plastic containers in your refrigerator, consider the following:
- Check for Food-Grade Labels: Look for symbols like a fork and glass, which indicate the plastic is safe for food contact.
- Choose Durable Containers: Opt for reusable, sturdy plastic containers specifically designed for food storage, such as those made from PP (#5) or HDPE (#2). These are built to withstand repeated washing and temperature changes.
- Ensure They Are Clean: Always wash containers thoroughly with soap and water before and after use to prevent bacterial growth and cross-contamination.
- Avoid Damaged Containers: Discard any plastic containers that are cracked, scratched, or warped. Damage can create crevices where bacteria can hide and may compromise the integrity of the plastic, potentially leading to chemical leaching.
- Seal Properly: Use containers with airtight lids to prevent food spoilage, absorb odors, and maintain freshness. This also helps in organizing your fridge and preventing spills.
- Minimize Single-Use Plastics: While many single-use plastic containers (like those from yogurt or deli meats) are safe for initial refrigeration, they are not designed for long-term reuse or heating. Their plastic may degrade over time, making them less safe for repeated food storage.
- Temperature Considerations: While fridges are cold, be cautious if moving hot food directly into plastic containers before cooling. It's generally best to let hot food cool down slightly before transferring it to plastic and placing it in the fridge, to prevent potential plastic degradation or leaching, although modern food-grade plastics are increasingly robust.
By following these guidelines, you can confidently use plastic containers to store a wide variety of foods and beverages in your refrigerator, keeping your food fresh and your kitchen organized.
