Disposable utensils are convenient and indispensable for many things: a quick snack on the street, going out into nature, a light buffet and so on. At the same time, there are reports on the Internet that it is harmful to health. To learn how to properly use plastic products in everyday life, you need to know and observe the features of their use. V Lately on the Internet, you can read a lot of opinions "for" and "against" polymer products, especially with regard to plastic disposable tableware. Some of the most common of them, commented on by experts public institution"Minsk Regional Center for Hygiene, Epidemiology and Public Health".

1. “Many plastic products may contain harmful stabilizers, salts of heavy metals and other toxic substances, and all this when heated, especially when reused, can enter our body. That is why disposable tableware cannot be reused.” Probably, it is not for nothing that the dishes are called disposable, which excludes the possibility of their reuse?

Disposable tableware is intended for single use and therefore it is not recommended to reuse it. These products are produced from certain grades of polymeric materials, which, as a result of repeated and prolonged exposure to high temperatures and aggressive environments, can quickly collapse. I would like to note that all types of utensils, containers and packaging for food raw materials and food products made of polymeric materials, even before they enter circulation, are examined for safety and harmlessness for the consumer, including the migration of chemicals into contact with this polymer material of the medium. Without conducting toxicological tests and obtaining a positive sanitary and hygienic conclusion based on its results, none of the types of such products can be put into circulation on the territory of our country.

2. “Polyvinyl chloride is used to make bottles for drinks, boxes for cosmetics, containers for household chemicals, and disposable tableware. Over time, PVC begins to release a harmful substance - vinyl chloride. Naturally, from the bottle it gets into drinks, from the plate - into food, and from there - directly into the human body. And vinyl chloride is a carcinogen. A PVC bottle begins to release this dangerous substance a week after the contents have been poured into it. A month later, several milligrams of vinyl chloride accumulate in mineral water. Oncologists say that this amount is sufficient for the development of malignant diseases. How true is this statement?

It is worth remembering that any polymeric material from which a bottle, food container or dish is made is obtained by polymerization (the formation of a high molecular weight substance by repeatedly attaching molecules of a low molecular weight substance to active centers in a growing polymer molecule). In the process of storage and use of a product made of polymeric materials under the influence of various chemical and physical factors (acidic or alkaline environment, intense light, high or low temperature, exposure to radiation, etc.), processes of structure change may occur in it, accompanied by some release into the environment a number of chemicals and compounds. Failure to comply with the rules for the use of such products leads to the entry into the body of negligible amounts of these substances, the summation of the effect of which, with prolonged, systematic use, can cause irreversible changes in various tissues of the body.

3. “Often plastic bottles are reused, they are poured into tea or fruit drinks and even alcoholic beverages. Five-liter bottles have replaced buckets and canisters for summer residents, or they are used to store Epiphany water from “living” sources. But few people know that nothing but water can be refilled into water bottles! Yes, and water is not in everything, but only in PET bottles, and PVC bottles cannot be reused at all.” Is it really true?

Containers made of polyethylene terephthalate, mainly this material is most often used for the manufacture of packaging for mineral water and non-alcoholic carbonated drinks, has a certain service life, during which, during storage of this product, it does not adversely affect the taste and safety of the product. Re-packing water, and even more so tea, compotes and fruit drinks, which are more aggressive environments, into a once used container is not recommended.

4. “Bottle plastic remains neutral only in the absence of oxygen, i.e. as long as the water retains its original chemical composition. As soon as the bottle is opened, the water quickly changes its properties, after which the plastic inevitably changes its properties. As for the "living" and holy water, then its healing properties can only be preserved in glass containers. Do you agree with this statement?

With prolonged, improper storage and (or) use of products made of polymeric materials, the processes of their destruction can proceed more intensively. Of course, glass is a more stable compound than a polymeric material; it does not change its properties even under the action of acids, alkalis and solvents. As packaging for the long-term storage of liquids and foodstuffs, it is a priority.

5. “Disposable PVC cups can only be used for water. It is better not to drink sour juices, sodas, hot and strong drinks from them. Is this the correct recommendation?

Labeling on products “for foodstuffs” provides for its use periodically for one-time, and not long-term contact. It is not allowed to repackage and store food liquids and products in them. Do not reuse disposable tableware or consumer packaging from various food and drink products (containers, boxes, bottles, etc.). After consumption of the food or drink packaged in them, they are subject to separate collection and subsequent disposal.

6. “If the Latin letters PS are applied to the dishes, it means that the vessel is made of polystyrene. You can drink cold drinks from it, but hot tea or coffee (with a temperature of +70 and above) is not worth it. The same effect, if you pour a strong drink into a polystyrene vessel, for example, vodka. Styrene accumulated in the body stimulates the development of liver cirrhosis. How true is this statement?

Polystyrene belongs to the group of plastics based on polymers of unsaturated hydrocarbons. From various grades of polystyrene plastics at a temperature of 60-80 °C, styrene migration into model solutions is noted, and at a temperature of 20 °C, styrene is not released. In addition, at high temperatures, in addition to styrene, migration of other chemicals that make up polystyrene is also noted. Alcoholic solutions of alcoholic beverages are a more aggressive environment than tea, coffee and water, the use of this type of utensils for their packaging is prohibited.

7. “Polypropylene utensils (PP marking) are safer. It can withstand temperatures up to +100 degrees. But again, doctors don’t recommend drinking from it - you can transplant the kidneys and even go blind, which will be facilitated by the phenol released from the glass. Is this a horror story or is it true?

Polypropylene is a polymerization product of propylene. The intensity of migration of low-molecular compounds and ingredients included in its composition is also affected by temperature, with an increase in which migration naturally increases. The amount of methanol emitted is negligible, but in combination with other polluting components, it can have an adverse effect. Therefore, when using dishes made of polymeric materials in everyday life, one should pay attention to the markings applied to them: “for non-food purposes”, “for drinking water”, “for cold food products”, “for hot food products”, etc. and strictly follow these instructions. And, of course, you can’t use polymer dishes with a different marking and not intended for food storage at all.

8. There are many such tips on the Internet. But they usually don't have names. But in reality, doctors advise consumers to learn to distinguish the symbols on the back of products - in order to know what the dishes are made of and use them correctly. Do you agree with this? Can you give me some more good advice readers of Domashniy Zhurnal?

There is currently a large number of more stable materials for daily use and long-term storage of products - these are glass, porcelain, ceramics, etc. If you still use plastic containers in household use, then it will not be superfluous to study and remember the main types of its marking, which are offered to your attention below. Guided by the knowledge and simple rules for using plastic products, you will be able to properly use the huge variety of useful products and items made of polymer materials in everyday life without any fear for your health.

A special marking on the bottom of any plastic product informs the buyer about the type of polymer material from which it is made:

1. PET or PET - polyethylene terphthalate. Used for the manufacture of packaging (bottles, cans, boxes, etc.) for bottling soft drinks, juices, water. Also, this material can be found in packages for various types of powders, bulk food products, etc. Very well recyclable and reusable.

2. HDPE or LDPE - polyethylene high pressure. Used to make mugs and bags for milk and water, bottles for bleach, shampoos, detergents and cleaners. For the manufacture of plastic bags, canisters for motor and other machine oils etc. Very well recyclable and reusable.

3.V - PVC or PVC - polyvinyl chloride. It is used for packing liquids for washing windows, edible vegetable oils. Cans are made from it for packaging bulk food products and various kinds of edible fats. And it is this plastic that is practically not recyclable. Moreover, there is evidence that the carcinogen vinyl chloride contained in it has the ability to penetrate food, and then into the human body. Also, for the production of PVC, many additives are used that are very toxic to humans: phthalates, heavy metals, etc. And yet, the process of production, use and disposal of PVC is accompanied by the formation of a large amount of dioxins (the most dangerous poisons) and other extremely toxic chemicals.

4. LDPE or HDPE - low pressure polyethylene. Used in production plastic bags, flexible plastic packaging and for the production of some plastic bottles. Good for recycling and reuse.

5. PP or PP - polypropylene. Bottle caps, discs, syrup and ketchup bottles, yogurt cups, and film packaging are made from it.

6. PS or PS - polystyrene. It is used in the production of pallets for meat and poultry, containers for eggs.

7. OTHER or OTHER. A mixture of various plastics or polymers not listed above. Packaging marked with this number cannot be recycled and ends its life cycle in a landfill or in an incinerator. Now you can determine the type of plastic that you use daily for domestic purposes.

Head of the Department of Hygiene Milanovich I.V.

Head of the laboratory department Kobyashev I.A.

Plastic or Plastic Organic material based on natural or synthetic high molecular weight compounds. The most popular in the use of plastic, made on the basis of synthetic polymers.

The most common polymeric materials (types of plastic):

• Polyvinyl chloride (PVC)
• Polypropylene
• Polyethylene
• Polystyrene
• Polycarbonate

They produce both technical and food plastics.

Plastics used for the production of products that come into contact with food and children's assortment are subject to mandatory examination for compliance with sanitary and hygienic standards and are certified. The manufacturer is required to label his products. Food plastic has a generally accepted label - "glass and fork." It may say that it is intended for cold, bulk or hot products, for use in a microwave oven or for freezing, sometimes a temperature range is indicated.

For example, “Snowflakes” means that the container is suitable for freezing food, “wave oven” means that food can be heated in the microwave in the dishes, and “shower plates” indicate that the containers can be washed in the dishwasher. This marking is also used by some Russian manufacturers.

Harm

Harm of plastic

Plastic in its pure form is rather fragile, brittle material - it cracks in the light, melts from heat. For strength, stabilizers are added to it. This makes the plastic stronger, but also more toxic. Because of this, it appears damage to plastic utensils.

The polymers themselves are inert, non-toxic and do not "migrate" into food. But here are the intermediate substances, technological additives, solvents, as well as chemical decomposition products that can penetrate into food and have a toxic effect on humans. Under certain conditions, plastic releases toxic compounds that, when ingested, adversely affect human health.

This process can occur during storage of products or when they are heated. In addition, polymeric materials are subject to change (aging), as a result of which degradation products are released from them. And different kinds plastics become toxic under various conditions - some cannot be heated, others cannot be washed, etc. Improper operation becomes the main cause harm to plastic utensils.

American scientists claim that up to 80% of the "plastic" substances found in the human body get there from building and finishing materials, in particular, from such popular plastic windows, furniture, but most of all from dishes: all kinds of compounds pass from food plastic into products. nutrition. Domestic manufacturers assure that certified plastic utensils are absolutely safe - if used for their intended purpose.

Benefit

Pros of plastic utensils

Compactness, lightness, hygiene, low cost, ease of use allow you to use plastic utensils outside the home - on the road, in nature, etc. It does not require washing or cleaning. Therefore, the need for the use of plastic tableware is growing. Plastic utensils are also used by fast food restaurants, summer cafes and eateries.

Plastic food utensils: how to use

To plastic utensils did no harm health, it must be used strictly for its intended purpose. Food plastic of different brands has different properties. One brand of this polymer raw material is intended for the production of water bottles, the other is for bottles with carbonated drinks. Yogurt cups are made of plastic of a grade that makes it possible to produce a light and cheap container by casting, while being neutral with respect to milk fat, and pudding cups must resist sugar.

Experts insist: in no case should plastic packaging be used as food storage containers, and disposable tableware should not be used repeatedly. Disposable packaging should only be used once.

How plastic will react to contact with ingredients for which it was not intended, what compounds can be formed in this case, no one has investigated. Especially insidious are fats and acids, which can draw free toxic compounds out of plastic.

Foods high in sugar and fat should not be cooked in plastic containers. They are heated to the melting point and deformation of the plastic. It is necessary to cook them in special dishes that can withstand heating up to 140, 180 or more C.

When reusing disposable plastic utensils, its outer protective layer is damaged, and carcinogenic substances - formaldehydes, phenol, cadmium, lead - begin to be released.

Do not drink alcohol from disposable plastic cups. Any plastic contains toxic substances that do not dissolve in ordinary cold drinks, but do not withstand the chemical attack of alcohol.

The release of all kinds of compounds from plastic is greatly enhanced by heating. Therefore, only special containers designed for this purpose may be used in the microwave oven.

At home, immediately remove the packaging film from the products. Cut off the top layer from food stored in plastic packaging.

Do not use disposable packaging for food storage. Store food in glass and ceramic containers. Try to avoid plastic-packed products whenever possible, preferring loose ones.

Buy baby food only in glass or cardboard. Do not use for baby food plastic utensils. Do not microwave food in plastic containers.

Do not keep water in pitcher filters for a long time. In the morning and evening, replace the remaining water with fresh water. A cloudy plastic water jug ​​should be thrown away.

Also, the disposable packaging was not intended for washing, so the result can be unpredictable.

Any polymeric material ages under the influence of light, heat, heating and contact with various substances. Then it becomes cloudy, absorbs odors and ingredients from the contents and releases toxic substances.

Food manufacturers indicate that the shelf life applies not only to the product itself, but also to the packaging. This is especially true for canned goods. For example, they can detect a toxic substance - biphenol.

Plastic film containing biphenol is lined on the inside of cans to keep the metal from coming into contact with food. From here, biphenol can pass into the contents.

It is advisable to replace canned food with fresh or frozen foods.

Transfer food from opened cans to glass containers, even if we are talking about short-term storage (under the influence of oxygen, the corrosion of cans increases sharply and the content of lead and tin in food begins to increase rapidly).

Toxins can accumulate in the body for years, undermining health. Even small amounts are poisonous if exposed for a long time.

Buy food, plastic utensils and cling film only from reputable manufacturers and only in reliable stores.

To date, there are disposable tableware made from environmentally friendly materials - cane, bamboo, based on eggshell, as well as paper utensils made of cardboard.

ADDITIONALLY

Labeling of plastic utensils

To simplify the sorting of plastic, a special international marking has been developed - triangles formed by arrows with a number inside. The number indicating the type of plastic is located inside the triangle. Below the triangle is an alphabetic abbreviation indicating the type of plastic.

PET Polyethylene terphthalate: bottles for carbonated drinks, water, juices, dairy products, vegetable oils, cosmetic products and so on.

Frozen ready meals in trays that can be reheated in the microwave or oven are made from crystallized polyethylene terphthalate. Its properties remain unchanged in the range from -40º to +250ºС. True, some brands may lose the necessary heat resistance after they have undergone deep cooling.

Buy drinks only in PET bottles and do not reuse them.

PP Polypropylene: medical products, bottle caps, hot dishes, food packaging film

Polypropylene utensils (PP marking) are safer. The polypropylene glass maintains temperature to +100 °C. From polypropylene glasses you can drink hot tea or coffee, in plates from it you can heat food in the microwave. But upon contact with strong drinks and alcohol, it releases formaldehyde or phenol. If you drink vodka from such a glass, not only the kidneys suffer, but also the eyesight. Formaldehyde is also considered a carcinogen.

PS Polystyrene: disposable tableware, cups for dairy products, yogurt, electrical insulation film

Polystyrene is indifferent to cold liquids. But when polystyrene dishes come into contact with hot water or alcohol, it begins to release a toxic compound (monomers) - styrenes. Hot foods are not recommended to be placed in polystyrene plates. Plates made of polystyrene are often used in summer cafes for barbecue. And along with hot meat and ketchup, the client also receives a dose of toxins - styrenes, which accumulate in the liver and kidneys.

Disposable cups can only be used for water. It is better not to drink acidic juices, soda, hot and strong drinks from them. Some coffee machines use polystyrene cups. That is, hot coffee or tea cannot be drunk from them.

When purchasing instant products (those that only need to be poured with boiling water), pay attention to the packaging (cup, bag, plate). Although Rospotrebnadzor and certification bodies monitor the safety of materials, nevertheless, manufacturers often use polystyrene packaging. Therefore, it is better to transfer products to ceramic or enameled dishes and then pour boiling water over them.

Refrigerate food before placing it in the container. For hot food and microwave use only special utensils.

If there is no marking on the plastic, you can distinguish PS from PP by touch - polystyrene crunches and breaks, and polypropylene crumples. Also the main distinguishing feature polystyrene bottle - bluish color of the container. And when pressing with a fingernail on PS plastic, a whitish scar (stripe) always remains, on PP plastic, the container will remain smooth.

HDP High density polyethylene: packaging bags, garbage bags

PVC Polyvinylchloride : construction and Decoration Materials, furniture, shoes, medical products, water bottles, food packaging film

Synthetic poison dioxin can be released from PVC dishes in cases of heating food in microwave ovens, freezing water in freezers. Dioxins accumulate in human adipose tissue and are not excreted from the body for a very long time (up to 30 years). The released dioxin causes cancer (especially breast cancer).

LDP Low density polyethylene (low pressure): bottles for detergents and edible vegetable oils, toys, pipes, plastic bags.

Other types of plastic are multi-layer packaging or composite plastic.

Mayonnaise, ketchup and other sauces, seasonings, juices, jams, ready-made soups and cereals that require heating, sold in bags. Such bags are made from multilayer combined films. The choice of film depends on the properties of the product, the period and conditions of its storage. Soups, cereals, main dishes are packed in bags of films with a high melting point. Dishes in such packaging can be heated in the microwave or boiled directly in the bag. Such dishes withstand temperatures from -40 to +230 ° C and more. But physiologists still advise eating them less often.

Dishes made of melamine (polymerized formaldehyde) - it is white, shiny (reminiscent of porcelain), weighs lighter, does not break. When tapped, melamine dishes emit not a sonorous, but a deaf echo.

It is extremely dangerous to use such dishes. For the durability of dishes, asbestos can be added to it, which is prohibited even in construction (such dishes come to Russia from Turkey, Jordan and China). It cannot be used for hot food. When hot water is poured into a melamine dish, the formaldehyde begins to dissolve in the water. Formaldehyde and asbestos can cause cancer. To keep the drawing on such a plate for a long time, paints containing heavy metals, primarily lead, are used.

Many people know that you can return the product within fourteen days from the date of purchase, if it was not in use and the presentation is preserved. However, there are some difficulties with regard to plates and sets of dishes. Buyers continually encounter violations of consumer rights and inform us that the seller does not accept the dishes back, justifying their refusal by the fact that the dishes are included in the list of goods of good quality that cannot be exchanged or returned. Let's see if the seller's actions are legal and whether it is really impossible to return plates and other utensils back to the store within 14 days from the date of purchase.

In what cases can I return the dishes to the store?

To begin with, we will analyze the general conditions for the return of goods of good quality. To terminate the contract of sale and return the money for the purchased dishes, you must comply with the following conditions:

1. No more than 14 calendar days have passed since the purchase.
2. You have kept the presentation of the dishes (didn’t tear off the labels, stickers, didn’t throw them away and didn’t spoil the packaging).
3. You have not used the utensils, and they have no traces of use.
4. The seller, at the time of refusal to purchase, does not have other dishes that would suit you in size, shape, dimensions, style or color.
5. The purchased dishes are not included in the List of non-food products of good quality that cannot be returned or exchanged, approved by Decree of the Government of the Russian Federation No. 55 of 01.1998. (hereinafter - the List).

If, as a rule, there are no problems with the first four points, then it is difficult to determine whether the dishes are non-returnable goods.

Clause 6 of the List specifies products and materials that are wholly or partially made of polymeric materials and come into contact with food (tableware and tableware and kitchen utensils, containers and packaging materials for storing and transporting food products, including those for single use).

A literal interpretation of paragraph 6 of this List allows us to conclude that dishes made entirely or partially from polymeric materials cannot be returned or exchanged. That is, if the dishes are made of polymeric materials, then they cannot be returned or exchanged. If, however, polymeric materials were not used in the manufacture of dishes, then the seller is not entitled to refuse to satisfy the requirements of the consumer only by referring to clause 6 of the List.

What about polymeric materials?

There are a wide variety of polymeric materials. There are both natural polymers (such as rubber) and synthetic ones. You can understand that polymeric materials are used in the composition by the name of the substances used. If the word begins with the prefix "poly-", then you have the same polymer. For example, polyethylene, polypropylene, polystyrenes, polyvinyl acetate, etc. All of them have the prefix “poly-” and refer to polymeric substances. However, basic knowledge chemical properties certain materials are good, but a link to a legal act is still better.

Unfortunately, there is no normatively established list of polymeric materials. But at the same time, the list of polymeric materials is contained in the Table of sanitary and hygienic safety indicators and standards for substances released from packaging in contact with food products, approved by the Decision of the Commission of the Customs Union of 16.08.2011. No. 769. The table includes:

1. Polymeric materials and plastics based on them;
2. Paraffins and waxes
3. Paper, cardboard, parchment, subparchment
4. Glass
5. Ceramics
6. Faience and porcelain

Glass, ceramics, earthenware and porcelain are included in this Table separately from polymeric materials, which allows one to reasonably conclude that these materials do not belong to polymeric substances. The Commission of the Customs Union singled them out into separate groups, without even combining them, which indicates completely different characteristics of these materials.

But we are interested in polymeric materials. In accordance with the Decision of the Commission of the Customs Union of 16.08.2011. No. 769 these include:

1. Polyethylene (LDPE, HDPE), polypropylene, propylene-ethylene copolymers, polybutylene, polyisobutylene, polyolefin composites
2. Polystyrene plastics: Block polystyrene, shock-resistant; Copolymer of styrene with acrylonitrile; ABS plastics (acrylonitrile butadiene styrene plastics); Copolymer of styrene with methyl methacrylate; Copolymer of styrene with methyl methacrylate and acrylonitrile; Copolymer of styrene with alpha-methylstyrene; Copolymers of styrene with butadiene; Expanded polystyrenes
3. Polyvinyl chloride plastics
4. Polymers based on vinyl acetate and its derivatives: polyvinyl acetate, polyvinyl alcohol, copolymer dispersion of vinyl acetate with dibutyl maleate
5. Polyacrylates
6. Polyorganosilaxanes (silicones)
7. Polyamides: Polyamide 6 (polycaproamide, capron); Polyamide 66 (polyhexamethylene adipamide, nylon); Polyamide 610 (polyhexamethylene sebacinamide)
8. Polyurethanes
9. Polyesters: Polyethylene oxide; Polypropylene oxide; Polytetra-methylene oxide; polyphenylene oxide; Polyethylene terephthalate and copolymers based on terephthalic acid; Polycarbonate; Polysulfone; polyphenylene sulfide; Polymers when used as a binder are used: Phenol-formaldehyde resins, organosilicon resins, Epoxy resins.
10. Fluoroplasts: Fluoroplast-3 Fluoroplast-4, teflon
11. Plastics based on phenol-formaldehyde resins (phenolic plastics)
12. polyformaldehyde
13. Aminoplasts (urea- and melamine-formaldehyde)
14. Polymer materials based on epoxy resins
15. Ionomeric resins, incl. serlin
16. Cellulose
17. Ether cellulose plastics (etrols)
18. Collagen (biopolymer)
19. Rubber and rubber-plastic materials (gaskets, can seals, canning lid seals, etc.)

If the above polymeric materials were used in the manufacture of dishes, then it will not be possible to return it to the seller.

Can glassware be returned to the store?

Glass is of both organic and mineral origin. Organic glass is a polymeric material. Mineral glass, which is most often used in the manufacture of dishes, does not apply to polymeric materials. For example, Luminarc tableware is made of tempered mineral glass. Such dishes can be returned to the store without any problems, provided that the buyer complies with the general conditions for the return of goods of good quality.

Can I return ceramic, porcelain and faience dishes back to the store?

As we have already found out, ceramics, porcelain and faience do not belong to polymeric materials. Therefore, the return of such dishes is possible and the seller is not entitled to refuse a refund or exchange for another product, referring to clause 6 of the List.

Can I return pots and other stainless steel utensils to the store?

Stainless steel is not a polymer. Therefore, stainless steel utensils can also be returned to the seller, but with the obligatory observance of the general grounds for the return of goods of good quality.

Can I return the frying pan to the store?

But here everything is ambiguous. Modern frying pans are made using various materials. Therefore, it is quite logical that some new fashionable non-stick coating can be created on the basis of polymeric materials.

But we can definitely say for sure that Teflon pans cannot be returned or exchanged. Teflon is a polymer, and it is specified in the Decision of the Customs Union Commission dated 16.08.2011. No. 769 as a polymer material.

To understand if your frying pan uses polymer materials, we advise you to study the accompanying information for it or contact the manufacturer directly for additional clarification. If the pan is made without the use of polymeric materials, then it can be returned to the seller without any problems and demand a refund or exchange for another product.

How is the judicial practice on the return of dishes made of non-polymer materials?

In preparing this article, we analyzed many court decisions of both the courts of first instance and the courts of appeal and cassation. And we can only say one thing: everything is bad. Judges either can't read or have trouble interpreting the law literally.

For example, the Moscow City Court in the Appeal ruling dated 10.09.2015. in case No. 33-32517 / 2015, refused the buyer to satisfy the claims for the return of the set of dishes "INOXIA", referring to the fact that the specified set of dishes falls under clause 6 of the List. In addition, the court substantiated its position by the fact that the buyer was warned that the INOXIA utensil set was a product in contact with food.

Did the Moscow City Court evaluate the set of dishes in terms of whether polymeric materials were used in its manufacture? Unfortunately no. The violated consumer rights have not been restored.

There are other court decisions when consumer rights are denied, but without reference to clause 6 of the List, although they ask to terminate the contract and return the money for the purchased dishes. But the refusal is made for the reason that consumers are guided by the wrong tactics of protecting their violated rights and themselves contribute to the fact that their requirements are subsequently denied. We will not evaluate such solutions in this article. This is a topic for a separate article.

Are there court decisions where courts take into account what the dishes are made of?

Yes, there are such solutions. For example, the Supreme Court of the Russian Federation in its Resolution of December 30, 2015 N 309-AD15-16762 in case N A71-4624 / 2015 declared illegal the seller's refusal to satisfy the buyer's requirements for a refund for a Taller TR-1047 stainless steel cookware set. When referring to clause 6 of the List, the court took into account that utensils made of polymeric materials are not subject to return, and utensils made of stainless steel are not subject to the List.

Summing up the above, we would like to additionally note that the satisfaction of consumer requirements directly depends on how correctly the buyer exercises his rights in pre-trial order, as well as what method of protection will be used in court. If you do not know how to properly protect your rights, then contact our lawyers for preparation of a refund for purchased dishes of good quality, or for drafting consumer protection. We will be happy to help you!

Hello.

Today I would like to talk about the dangers of plastic dishes. Many of us use such utensils to store or transport food. Plastic utensils are very easy to use, cheap and in many cases considered to be much more effective than iron or glass utensils.

In our active time, where you need to "spin like a squirrel in a wheel" in order to achieve something in life, it is not always possible to store food in iron or glass dishes (it takes up a lot of space, has a lot of weight and size). People are increasingly using plastic dishes, which are very practical and light, allowing you to carry food or eat comfortably.

The level of sales of plastic tableware is increasing every year. A large number of disposable tableware is produced for various purposes: cups, plates, food storage containers, etc. Manufacturers claim that their products do not harm human health if the instructions for use are followed. Unfortunately, few of us know these instructions. And in vain...

What is plastic? By itself, plastic is a brittle polymer material, is considered non-toxic and does not harm human health. But manufacturers, in order to improve its durability and strength, add special chemical components that, under certain conditions, are harmful to health.

There are different types of plastic utensils. It happens with the material: polypropylene, polyethylene, polycarbonate, polystyrene and polyvinyl chloride. Depending on the composition of the plastic, the product is used for different purposes.

On such dishes, it must be indicated under what conditions it can be used. The manufacturer puts a special mark on his product, which indicates for what purposes it can be used. The most common signs are: "fork with a glass", "snowflakes", "plates under the shower", etc. . Such labels inform the consumer that the product is suitable for contact with food and that some action on the plastic is allowed (for example, washing with water or hot/low temperature).

The manufacturer also indicates the type of plastic. Most often, this is a number in a triangle that indicates what material the plastic container is made of. Check out the marking table:

PLASTIC LABELING CHART

1. Polyethylene terphthalate (PET) is marked with a number "1" .
2. Low pressure polyethylene (HDPE or HDPE) is marked with a number "2" .
3. Polyvinyl chloride (PVC or PVC) is marked with a number "3" .
4. High pressure polyethylene (LDPE or LDPE) is marked with a number "4" .
5. Polypropylene (PP) is marked with a number "5" .
6. Polystyrene (PS) is marked with a number "6" .
7. A mixture of different plastics (OTHER) is marked with a number "7" .

Most often, the marking sign is placed on the bottom of the dishes. If you want to buy plastic dishes, then be sure to look for the number in the triangle. Let's take a closer look at what harm plastic can cause. different kind when used incorrectly:

HARM OF PLASTIC CUTLERY

1. Polyethylene terphthalate (PET) .

This material is considered environmentally friendly among the rest. Manufacturers produce disposable cups, plates, jars, boxes, bottles from it. The shelf life of such containers is a year. Unfortunately, this material has weak protective characteristics. It lets in ultraviolet rays, air, which leads to a decrease in the shelf life of products.

Also, the manufacturer can add additional chemical components (dicols, phthalates or other toxic substances) to improve the reliability of their products. That's when such plastic can harm human health. The main rule is not to reuse PET containers, because over time the protective properties are lost and toxic substances are released.

Also, when heated, formaldehyde is released, so you can not heat dishes made of polyethylene terephthalate (for example, in a microwave).



2. Low pressure polyethylene (HDPE) .

Get it at low pressure. This material is part of various cans, bottles, films. Mostly rigid containers. May be reused. It is safe to say that it belongs to the safest plastics. It has high hardness, high strength, excellent chemical resistance to fats, acids and alkalis. Melting point: +129-135. It has greater fragility, less water absorption, vapor permeability.

Plastic utensils made using low-density polyethylene material can be identified with a simple tap. At the same time, a loud and strong sound is heard.



3. High density polyethylene (LDPE) .

The material is very light and durable. Various plastic packaging (flexible), bags, films, containers for storing detergents, and some plastic bottles (for vegetable oil). For others, it is considered environmentally friendly due to its characteristics. Used for food contact. The melting point is about 110 degrees. It is resistant to tearing and deformation. Has resistance to influence of sunshine.



4. Polyvinyl chloride (PVC or PVC) .

Very resistant to acids, various oils, solvents.

Very common dishes made of this material. They make bottles for water, and is also part of some films for packaging. They also make caps for plastic bottles (vegetable oil for example). It is forbidden to use dishes containing polyvinyl chloride for long-term storage of any products.

To create color or impact resistance, manufacturers add additional additives: plasticizers, softeners, pigments, and so on. It is these additives that are dangerous to humans.

If the conditions of use are not observed, hazardous substances are released - phthalates, dioxide, bisphenol A, heavy metals and vinyl chloride (this is a very toxic substance that can be very harmful to health). Scientists have proven that when used improperly, vinyl chloride is released, which penetrates into food.

Polyvinyl chloride products must not be heated. When burned, toxic substances (very dangerous for humans) are released. Hormonal disorders, reduced immunity, cancer, or infertility may occur.



5. Polypropylene (PP).

Polypropylene is used in the manufacture of food packaging film, cups for yogurt, plates, spoons, caps for different containers, baby bottles, hot food containers. The material withstands high temperatures (up to +100 C), so you can drink hot tea or coffee.

You can not drink alcohol from polypropylene, because formaldehyde and phenol are released. These substances accumulate in the body and destroy the liver and kidneys. There is a violation of vision, a violation of the gastrointestinal tract (an ulcer is possible).

Experts also prohibit the use of such dishes for storing fat. Upon contact with fat, the protective walls of the plastic are destroyed and formaldehyde and other toxic substances are released. It is forbidden to heat products from polypropylene above 100 degrees.



6. Polystyrene (PS).

Manufacturers use this type of plastic to create egg containers and cups. Do not heat polystyrene cookware, because hazardous toxic substances are released. Hot food is highly discouraged.

The advantage of polystyrene is its resistance to cold, so it can be used for cold food.

Improper handling may release a carcinogen - styrene. Human reproductive function suffers. Do not drink alcohol or hot tea from such containers. The dishes are intended exclusively for cold food. It is advisable to minimize the use of this type of plastic in your life.

7. Mix of different plastics (OTHER) .

A mixture of various plastics or polymers not listed above. Packaging marked with this number cannot be recycled and ends its life cycle in a landfill.

Many manufacturers use combinations of different plastics. Used for making baby bottles, water bottles.

Very often there is such a component as polycarbonate. In case of improper handling of dishes (very long-term use), a toxic element is released from polycarbonate - bisphenol A. Bisphenol A disrupts physiological processes in the body, metabolism is disturbed, and hormonal imbalance occurs. It is not recommended to use plastic utensils marked OTHER.

You and I got acquainted with the main types of materials that are used to create plastic dishes, we learned what danger they pose in themselves. Unfortunately, nowadays it is almost impossible to do without plastic dishes. Therefore, it is necessary to minimize the harm from their use. Experts recommend the following:

TIPS FOR USE OF PLASTIC TABLEWARE

1. It is necessary to strictly use plastic utensils for their intended purpose.
2. Do not pour hot water into plastic containers.
3. Do not purchase dishes if you see that they were made a year ago (the longer they are stored, the more chemistry you will receive).
4. It is advisable for the child to use only glassware.
5. Give up plastic bottles for feeding the baby (it is better to buy a glass bottle).
6. Do not store food in plastic containers.
7. Buy water in glass containers at the store.
8. Disposable containers are strictly forbidden to be reused.
9. Do not store food in plastic bags in the refrigerator.

Polyolefins(polyethylenes of various densities, polypropylene, modified grades of these polymers) are the most economical and widely used synthetic polymeric materials in the food industry. They are obtained by polymerization of unsaturated hydrocarbons of the olefin class. Of the additives, only stabilizers, antioxidants and dyes are usually used. Heat resistance 110-150°, frost resistance from -15 to -75°. The physiological safety of these materials has been proven. Due to the possibility of occurrence with increasing temperature environment Odorless polyolefin cookware is intended primarily for contact with cold food.

PVC(vinyl plastic, plastic compounds), copolymers of vinyl chloride, polymers of the vinyl series are obtained by polymerizing vinyl chloride and introducing various additives (stabilizers, plasticizers, fillers, dyes) into the finished polymer. Heat resistance about 65°, frost resistance -10°. Hygienically limiting is the possibility of migration of toxic additives and monomers from the polymer composition.

With an appropriate selection of additives, the use of polyvinyl chloride in the food industry is not objectionable for packaging cold food products.

Polystyrenes(conventional polystyrenes, high-impact, copolymers) are obtained by polymerization of styrene. Impact-resistant plastics are a mixture of polystyrene with rubber, which increases the mechanical strength of the material. Heat resistance does not exceed 80°. The use of polystyrenes for food contact is limited mainly by the migration of the styrene monomer.

Polycarbonate(diflon) is obtained by polycondensation of monomers - diphenylpropane and carbonic acid chloride. Plastic usually does not contain additives. Heat resistance 125-140°. The possibility of using polycarbonate dishes is determined by the migration of diphenylpropane, the magnitude of which is small. From a hygienic point of view, polycarbonate is one of the most promising polymeric materials for the manufacture of a variety of food utensils.

Aminos(melalite) - pressed materials based on urea - or melamine-formaldehyde resins. The composition of aminoplasts includes fillers (wood and cotton cellulose, asbestos), dyes and lubricants. Heat resistance 100-120°. Currently, melalite utensils are only allowed for serving aircraft passengers. The widespread use of tableware made from this material is limited by the migration of formaldehyde.

Although other types of polymeric materials are used in the food industry, they are of limited use for the manufacture of dishes.