Silicone is thermosetting, derived mainly from silica, while plastic is thermoplastic, often derived from petroleum by-products. They may share the same features, but they are essentially different materials.
Silicone utensils are safe, yes, regardless of color or dyes. Plastic is not.
Like any plastic polymer, silicones are synthetic and include a mix of chemical additives derived from fossil fuels. The key difference from the common carbon-based plastics we describe here is that silicones have a backbone made of silicon.
The problem is average people have no way to tell which of their utensils, takeout containers or children's toys are toxic and which aren't. “It's just a minefield, really,” he said. The safest option? Toss the black plastic spatulas, and replace them with silicone, metal or wooden cooking utensils.
“Silicone is flexible, resists high temperatures, and does not leach harmful chemicals into food.
When old electronics are improperly recycled, the harmful flame retardants can mix with other plastics and contaminate products made from recycled plastic. The flame-retardant chemicals can get into food, especially when the plastic is heated. That's why black plastic cooking utensils may be a concern.
Silicone vs plastic cooking utensils offer distinct advantages in the kitchen. Silicone withstands higher heat, up to 482°F (250°C), while plastic risks melting at 350°F (175°C). Silicone is more durable, non-toxic, and easier to clean, resisting stains and odors.
The 'Big Three' Alternatives for Black Plastic Utensils
The three alternative materials recommended by experts are BPA-free silicone, stainless steel, and wood.
Silicone is our favorite alternative to replace plastic. It's long-lasting and virtually indestructible, making it the perfect material for all things reusable—straws, tumblers, cups, snack bags, and so much more.
Food-grade silicone is safe to store food, put in the microwave, freezer, oven, and dishwasher without hardening, cracking, peeling, or becoming brittle as it is resistant to extreme temperatures. It is made without petroleum-based chemicals, BPA, BPS, PVC, latex, lead, phthalates, or fillers.
Unlike plastic, silicone is not prone to cracking or breaking under pressure. This makes it more durable and long-lasting than hard plastic. Silicone is also non-toxic and hypoallergenic, making it safe for use in a wide range of applications.
If you're not sure whether the black utensil in question is plastic or silicone, keep in mind that silicone feels similar to rubber and has a telltale grippy, slip-free texture. Hard plastic is more slippery, even when it isn't entirely smooth.
Experts suggested that you avoid leaving your plastic utensils in hot pots or pans. They also advised against reheating food in black plastic containers, and said you should throw away black plastic items that are chipped or dented, to avoid the risk that the splintered plastic will contaminate food.
Black PP plastic is polypropylene modified with carbon black pigments. Incorporating carbon black enhances the material's strength, durability, and resistance to UV radiation. This material is known for its high tensile strength, excellent chemical resistance, and low moisture absorption properties.
RECOMMENDED: Use Solution Finish Trim Restorer.
Luckily, bringing out the plastic's natural luster is easily done. By rubbing olive oil or using a heat gun on the faded area, you can help your plastic look as good as new. And, if all else fails, you can always use black spray paint to give your plastic a sleek shine again.
At temperatures exceeding 428 degrees Fahrenheit, the silicone can begin to melt and taint the food. Recent studies suggest that under prolonged stress (over 72 hours in an alcohol solution), silicone may leach particulates into food or liquids.
Silicone is thermosetting, derived mainly from silica, while plastic is thermoplastic, often derived from petroleum by-products. They may share the same features, but they are essentially different materials.
Silicone: Food-grade silicone is heat-resistant and safe for non-stick surfaces, making this material a good option for those who like to cook on high heat or use non-stick pans.
While it might seem more sustainable to reuse (and eventually recycle) these containers, new research shows that many types of black plastics contain harmful flame retardants that shouldn't be coming into contact with food. (That means the black plastic spatula you use to scramble your eggs should get tossed, too.)
Beyond avoiding products with BPAs, Teflon, phthalates and nonstick coatings, she always recommends using wooden or stainless steel utensils in place of black plastic. In light of this information, we rounded up eight nontoxic spoons, utensil sets, tongs, spatulas and more, starting at just $7 at Amazon.
New research suggests that black plastic is associated with health risks. Researchers found toxic flame retardants in many black plastic household goods.