Foods, if wrapped in films, last longer, preserving their nutritional properties. They are protected from air and oxidation, and this allows to avoid possible deterioration or contamination of germs, bacteria and molds. To protect, therefore, the freshness of food and health, here are the right food films for different uses. In fact, there are many types with specific characteristics, more suitable for some foods and less for others.
To protect the freshness of food and health, here are the right food films for different uses
Transparent, resistant and practical it seems really impossible to do without films. At the time of purchase, however, it is always necessary to check that on the label there is the fork and glass symbol: this brand guarantees that the product does not release harmful chemicals into the food. Let’s see those on the market.
PVC film
It is the transparent one, the most widespread, made of PVC: a versatile and manageable plastic material enriched with plasticizing substances that make it flexible and adherent. The latter have a composition similar to that of fats, so there may be a migration of substances in foods. To avoid this inconvenience, the PVC film should not be used with fatty foods, such as butter and cheeses.
PE film
It is resistant and waterproof, but not very flexible and adheres less. The polyethylene, of which it is made, is a stable element and is attacked only by very acidic substances and after 60 ° it begins to degrade. It is therefore recommended for cold cuts, cheeses and meats, but it is not suitable for dry, acidic or too hot foods.
Plastic bags
They are perfect for storing food in the freezer and act as a barrier protecting them from odors. They resist heat, but not too high temperatures.
Aluminum
Protects from humidity, air and odors, resists temperature changes and heat well. It is suitable both for storing dry and wet foods, even very fatty ones; however, it should not be used with salted and acidic foods which tend to reduce its insulating effectiveness. Aluminum is generally less durable and more expensive.
The ecological alternatives
To preserve the freshness of food there are excellent alternatives: new ecological films, made with biodegradable or even edible materials, with a low impact on the planet, and with greater guarantees for human health.
The mater-bi film is made with a bioplastic material that can be thrown into the waste bin, as it is completely biodegradable. It can wrap any type of food and is entirely compostable as it is made with vegetable raw materials.
The pectin film of the orange peel is a plastic film capable of preserving food and is even edible.
Then, the film made of chitosan, a polymer derived from the processing of shrimp shells, is safe, biodegradable and can be eaten.
The food film obtained from milk proteins is an edible product that does not pollute: a decidedly green packaging.
As an alternative to food film there are also beeswax sheets: they have breathable, antibacterial properties, adhere well to food and are reusable.
(We remind you to carefully read the warnings regarding this article, which can be consulted WHO”)