Getting takeout food from a restaurant may sound like a convenient idea. Still, you may want to think twice after reading the findings of a recent study that examined plastic takeout containers and their potential impact on heart health.
The study was conducted by a team of researchers affiliated with Ningxia Medical University in China. The researchers’ findings were previously published in the academic journal Ecotoxicology and Environmental Safety.
“The study investigated the cardiovascular effects of daily exposure to plastic products by simulating the oral heat exposure mode of disposable plastic takeout containers (DPTC) commonly used in society.” the researchers stated in their study. “Questionnaires were used to randomly choose 3179 people in order to examine any possible correlation between the frequency of plastic exposure and the risk of cardiovascular diseases (CVD).”
“The population-based plastic exposure questionnaire data revealed that high-frequency exposure to plastics is significantly associated with an increased risk of congestive heart failure, with an odds ratio of 1.13 (95 % CI: 1.03–1.24).” the researchers stated about their findings.
“The study shows plastic exposure as a significant CVD risk factor regardless of duration. It leads to changes in myocardial tissue, gut microbiota, and metabolites, all closely tied to CVD.” the researchers concluded.
Of course, not all restaurants use plastic containers for their to-go food, whether it be original orders or leftovers. Additionally, plastic food containers are not just used by restaurants. Many households also store their food in plastic containers.
The results of this study should give people pause, both restaurant owners and non-restaurant owners, and encourage them to seek out non-plastic food storage options.
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