Is it possible to bake in cling film?
Cling film has long become an indispensable attribute of any kitchen. It is ideal for storing preparations and products; it is considered quite environmentally friendly and inexpensive. One of the advantages of the material is its high insulating characteristics. This allows you to store quickly perishable foods in the freezer or refrigerator.
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Is it possible to put cling film in the oven?
The material is a thin and flexible sheet of polyethylene that has high insulating properties. It prevents harmful external influences, oxidation and loss of moisture from products.
It is ideal for storing hard cheeses, salami, vegetables and fruits.
It is allowed to cover dishes and preparations with film. However, you should not do this on hot foods. Harmful substances in the composition of the material (under the influence of high temperature) disintegrate and settle on the products. Later in the body they are practically not excreted back, causing negative reactions.
What is cling film: composition
There are two types of material. The first of them (and the most commonly used) is made of polyvinyl chloride. It has good insulation properties, prevents the oxidation of products and in every possible way prolongs the life of ready-made dishes.
At the same time, it contains vinyl chloride, which experts call a carcinogen. Additionally, phthalates are present.When exposed to high temperature, oil or fat, they partially disintegrate and enter the human body.
Their negative impact is aimed at the endocrine life support system. Problems will be noticeable in the reproductive system and when metabolic processes are disrupted. Experts do not recommend using this type of film constantly in your own kitchen.
A more modern option is based on polyethylene. It is not inferior in properties, but is environmentally friendly. The chemical composition is stable and does not react to contact with fats, oils and other products.
Oven danger
The temperature that cling film can withstand varies from 60 to 100 degrees. Thus, it is strictly forbidden to use it in a conventional oven. Food will simply burn in such a wrapper.
Some manufacturers create material that is approved for use in microwave ovens. Be sure to inspect the packaging and label; there should be a heating permission symbol. However, doctors and chemists still do not recommend its use when heating foods.
Alternative options
If you want to cook a delicious baked dish in the oven, but the list of available materials is limited, find out what you can use to replace polyethylene:
- Biodegradable material, made in the form of a similar thin film. It is made from plant components and does not harm the human body or nature.
- Foil. A well-known and accessible material that is recommended for baking. The dishes turn out juicy and tasty.
- Baking paper. Widely used to create culinary masterpieces and baked goods.
- Baking bags. An ideal option for replacing film that will not harm the body.
To store food, instead of cling film, plastic and glass containers are used, as well as special lids with increased tightness.