Jan 10, 2012 - ST Forum
I AM surprised by Mr Ho Chee Khuen's letter ('Eight dirty
reasons he's resorted to takeaways'; last Thursday).
Granted, some coffee shops do not provide impeccably clean
eating utensils, but there is a hidden danger that is far more
dangerous than dirty utensils.
Nowadays, it is not uncommon to find solid polystyrene used in
disposable cutlery, yoghurt containers, and outside housing of
computers and hairdryers. The ubiquitous polystyrene is used in
packing materials, insulation and foam drink cups.
When food is heated in a polystyrene container, the monomer is
extracted and enters the digestive system of the consumer. Styrene
is toxic and a known carcinogen. This causes additional concerns
when used for food and beverage packaging. Polystyrene takes a long
time to disintegrate; its natural decomposition takes about 500
years.
Polystyrene contains the toxic substances styrene and benzene,
suspected carcinogens and neurotoxins that are hazardous to humans.
Hot food actually starts a partial breakdown of the styrofoam,
causing some toxins to be absorbed into our bloodstream and
tissue.
The fact that styrene can adversely affect humans in several
ways raises serious public health and safety questions regarding
its build-up in human tissue.
In short, do not use polystyrene for food containers, but use
the porcelain cups and plates as such reusable containers will be
less harmful to our body.
Heng Cho Choon
