Paper or Plastic?

As we’ve watched the coronavirus pandemic develop we began to wonder about the state of germ resistant packaging. What materials were used  to make it, who was making it and where it could be purchased? Our research brought us to an interesting article that touched on plastic food packaging. With everyone going the extra mile to de-germ, hand washing etc. groups of people have also been taking the time to wipe down their grocery packages. Sometimes before even bringing them in the house. 

Adding an extra tier of frustration to the current situation, the article is questioning whether or not plastic is good to package food during this time. While some feel that plastic is crucial for protecting food, others feel that it’s unsustainable and in fact carriesgerms.So far there haven’t been any cases of people catching covid from their food packaging. However, these are uncertain times and the lack of evidence does not necessarily mean that it’s impossible. 

During a time where we have all begun to sway more towards sustainable habits, the virus had begun to convince people once again that plastic was a necessary and effective material. That is until, the report came out that the virus could live for up to 72 hours on plastic or steel and only for 24 hours on cardboard. One thing is for certain, no one wants to get sick and the best measure is to go the extra mile and sanitize food packaging whether it comes in plastic or not! 

The article takes an interesting turn by mentioning waste management. As people shelter in place the demand for fresh food has risen greatly. Morrison feels that what we truthfully should be mindful of in regards to our food is how much of it are we actually consuming or wasting?
All in all the debate is far from black and white as there are several different points to consider and still no direct evidence of someone contracting the virus from their food packaging. Moving forward just make sure to stay informed and adopt cautious practices (like cleaning grocery bags) even if they may seem a bit silly and don’t order more than you need!