Is it possible to cook in cling film?

Serious conflicts have erupted around cooking recipes using cling film. Experts from different fields argue about the dangers of this cooking method. Some argue that food plastic today does not harm the human body. Others say that the film can provoke serious pathological processes. Let's try to understand this issue.

Is it possible to cook meat in cling film?

In European countries, for many years in a row they have been trying to abandon food plastic and packaging made from polyvinyl chloride and polyethylene. Non-ecological material harms the planet and, as a result, all life on earth. Glass containers, cardboard boxes and paper bags, as well as reusable shopping bags are used.

For cooking, exclusively reusable forms and foil are used. No cling film.

In our country, citizens are not yet so deeply concerned about the environment, so the use of cling film continues. The question of cooking under such conditions is often asked in search queries.

Cooking in cling film

On the Internet you will find dozens of ways to prepare food by pre-packaging it in thin plastic packaging. This is easy and simple to do, but is this method of cooking safe? Experts say that this option occurs if the composition of the material is correctly selected.

There are special packages for such purposes. Think about the baking “sleeve”.It's also made of plastic.

In order not to harm yourself and your loved ones, be sure to study the composition of the film you buy for your own kitchen. Only materials marked with special signs or with an indication on the packaging that it is possible to expose them to heat indicate the safety of the formulation.

Harmful or not

Scientists are sounding the alarm: plastic capable of releasing substances that are toxic to the body, causing serious pathologies. The risk increases significantly when foods are heated. That is why bans on the use of disposable tableware are gradually being introduced.

Scientists from Texas proved back in 2014 that carcinogens released by food plastic can cause cancer and infertility in both men and women.

However, many chefs from all over the world, in their original programs, invite viewers to cook meat in cling film. Therefore, doubts about the harmfulness of the material are often confusing. It is important to carefully read the ingredients on the package.

Safe film composition

The main component of the stretch material is polyvinyl chloride. The substance has high carcinogenic properties. That is why the supplement includes a whole list of stabilizing ingredients.

The composition also contains plasticizers, which ensure the softness of the film. It is recommended that their list be subjected to deep consideration, since they are also not harmless to humans. Among the non-hazardous ones are:

1. Diesters of azelaic, sebacic and adipic acid.
2. Phthalates. Often used in the production of goods for children, they do not pose a danger to the body.

If the composition complies with safety rules, you can cook it in cling film. But it is also worth paying attention to the temperature conditions that are acceptable during cooking.Heating above 80 degrees is not recommended, as stabilizers change their chemical properties. Therefore, cooking in boiling water for a long time is unacceptable.

If the need arises, chefs are advised to use special cooking sleeves and bags that are not afraid of exposure to temperatures. Be sure to place a layer of cloth on the bottom of the pan so that the bag does not come into contact with the metal surface. Also, place the saucepan on low heat and cook the meat for no more than two hours.