Ziploc backs are pretty common wherever we go. If you do not believe open up your fridge and take look at the inside. Especially, it will come in handy to store many household items. Well, these bags allow the inside to stay fresh for a longer time and prevent any contamination as well. Despite these benefits, problems arise when it comes to sustainability. These Ziploc bags are not recyclable and they will probably end up in landfills. Moreover, since plastic takes too much time to degrade, it will take forever to completely degrade and vanish from the planet. Luckily, you could use an alternative for plastic Ziploc bags instead to prevent such things from taking place. Before finding out the alternatives let us dig into Ziploc bogs more.
Ziploc bags are not anything new at all. Especially when it comes to storing food and other non-food items, these Ziploc bags come in handy. Thus, these are used in many industries for various applications. And these bags are reusable, which makes them ideal to use a couple of times straight. Moreover, these bags are quite easier to use as you only had to apply pressure to the top to seal the bag completely. The bag will keep the inside contents afresh and prevent the air and moisture from coming inside the bag. Typically, these are made of polyethylene which is a form of plastic. You will see them near the plastic wraps or aluminum foil, once you went into a local store.
Well, even though Ziploc bags have created hype in the industry, unfortunately, there is a downside that we cannot avoid at all costs. The first problem comes from the manufacturing process of the bag. As you may know, plastic is manufactured from petroleum. In short, our oil supply is decreasing day by day because of this manufacturing process. Well, it is not a renewable source of energy and it will take millions of years to form them back after they are completely consumed.
The second problem arises in terms of the place where these Ziploc bags will end up at. Have you ever considered what will happen to these bags once you dispose of them? Well, these will forever biodegrade and remain on the planet polluting lands and oceans. According to statistics, in 2018 around 4.2 million plastic bags are formed and from them, around 3 million tons of plastic bags have ended up at landfill sites. This will end up endangering not only wildlife but also marine life.
On top of that, there are health concerns due to the usage of plastic Ziploc bags. These bags contain BPA, a toxic chemical. Moreover, exposure to BPA will cause disorders including increased blood pressure, type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. And researches suggest that not only it can impact children's behaviors, but also the brain and prostate gland of children. So, stop wasting time and make the switch to an alternative and reduce using Ziploc bags.
Still, using Ziploc bags? As you can see Ziploc bags do have some questionable concerns. Well luckily, there are more sustainable alternatives out there that you can use instead of Ziploc bags. Check out the few options below and give it a go for an alternative and make the switch from Ziploc bags towards a more sustainable future.
The vacuum skin packaging is another alternative for plastic Ziploc bags. Well, this method allows you to place the meat in a plastic film which is on a tray, which you can directly squeeze into your freezer. This method creates a tight seal around the inside and keeps a barrier to prevent moisture and air from leaking. At the same time, this method also provides greater protection as a food packaging option and can extend the shelf life which is another bonus. So, why do not you switch to vacuum skin packaging?
Biodegradable packaging is causing a storm of hype around the food industry. Typically these products are made from food waste and other organic materials including bamboo and seaweed. These biodegradable food wraps are ideal to wrap up sandwiches, vegetables, fruits, and so on. Well, you can discard these food wraps without worry, as they won't harm nature and are earth friendly. Another perk of these products is they are reusable, so you can use them again and save money in the long run.
The high temperature steam bags are a food packaging material that is designed to withstand high temperatures from 80°C to 140°C. Well, unlike Ziploc bags you can use them with a microwave or boiling water as you prefer. This packaging method will surely make it convenient when you are working in the kitchen. Moreover, these high temperature steam bags can preserve the food for a longer time duration and takes less space when it comes to storing items.
Looking for a more luxurious and high-end alternative for plastic Ziploc bags? Consider glass containers from now on. Well, glass containers offer countless benefits, unlike Ziploc bags. Foremost of all, glass is a strong and durable material that is ideal for food and beverage packaging. On the other hand, glass containers have a more appealing appearance which attracts more consumers as well. On top of that, when it comes to household purposes, you can reuse them frequently which saves the trouble of buying more containers again.
Stainless steel containers are another alternative that has been used in the food industry for decades. These are durable and non-corrosive which is another perk. In addition, these are pretty much easier to clean, so you won't have a hard time spending a lot of time washing the containers again and again. In addition, typically stainless steel containers are airtight so you can keep your food fresher relatively for a longer time.
Now you are aware of the downside of the Ziploc bags which you never heard about. Well, rest assured as you can give it a go for the above 5 alternatives instead. And it is not easier to find brands that really follow sustainable food packaging options. Dig into some more to find the best manufacturer in the industry to store your food and beverages.
