in Food

Practical tips to prevent plastic film from sticking to one side or the other

And who has never given up on unrolling the plastic so that it no longer sticks to itself and being able to stretch it completely and use it?

Something related to the polyvinylidene chloride (PVC) or polyethylene from which it is made which tends to attract static charges and stick. But this time we bring you the definitive tip so that it stops being a problem. Take note.

Beyond the traditional aluminum foil, transparent film is another of those allies for wrapping food and snacks, which have accompanied us since childhood and one of those essential elements that are not missing in any Spanish home. It is a fundamental product in every kitchen that facilitates the preservation of our food, but its use almost always tends to be a little cumbersome.

Advantages and disadvantages of plastic film

Before explaining the definitive tip to prevent plastic wrap from peeling off anywhere, it is important to keep in mind that there are different types of plastic wrap on the market, each with their own applications.

Regular types are primarily used for packaging room temperature or cold foods, while those designed for freezing or microwave use can withstand lower temperatures or the microwave, although they should not be used in a conventional oven, but in a bain-marie.

Advantages of using plastic wrap:

  • Transparency: Its transparency makes it easy to see what’s inside, which is particularly useful when it comes to storing food in the freezer.
  • Flexibility: It is thin, flexible and elastic, allowing it to adapt to the shape of food and reducing the risk of breakage.
  • Waterproofing: Plastic film is waterproof and prevents food from drying out, helping to maintain freshness.

Disadvantages of plastic film:

  • Extreme Temperatures: Should not be used at extremely high or low temperatures unless it is a special type designed for such conditions.
  • Not suitable for conventional ovens: It is not safe to use plastic wrap in ovens or pans, as the plastic could melt and contaminate food.
  • Not recommended for fatty foods: Not suitable for packaging foods with a high fat content, as the plastic may not be strong enough.

How to Stop Plastic Wrap From Sticking Anywhere

An essential tool in the kitchen that you can reuse to preserve food and whose use you can make easier by simply changing the place where you keep this transparent film. To do this, you will just have to change its location in the kitchen drawer for the refrigerator.

Yes, you read correctly. So that the plastic film no longer sticks to any side, you simply need to lower its temperature. In fact, the polyethylene that it is composed of has a molecular temperature which, once cooled, reduces its ability to adhere to itself.

By storing it in the refrigerator you will therefore make it much more manageable and less likely to get tangled, making it easier to use later.

Steps to keep the plastic wrap from sticking to itself

To put this tip into practice, place the roll in a place in the refrigerator where it does not interfere with other products and where it is easily accessible. If you are using a new roller, it is advisable to leave it in the refrigerator for at least a few hours before first use.

Even if it is kept cold, it is essential to use it at room temperature to ensure adequate adhesion, because when removed from the refrigerator it returns to its usual stickiness.

By reducing problems with tangling and unwanted adhesion, you will minimize the amount of paper wasted due to handling errors.

How to ensure proper use of plastic film for the environment

Plastic film is a useful ally in the kitchen, but the reality is that it is mainly made from these two types of plastics: polyethylene and polypropylene. These materials are recyclable, but to recycle them properly, it is necessary to wash the plastic film to eliminate any organic residue then place it in the yellow container intended for packaging and plastics.

If it is not possible to dispose of organic waste, it must be thrown into the gray container. On the other hand, the cardboard box and the cylinder in which the plastic film is packaged can be recycled in the blue container.

Despite the possibility of recycling, it is important to emphasize that the constant, disposable use of plastic film is not the most sustainable option from an environmental point of view. As it is used and discarded, this material contributes to the increase in the amount of plastic in the environment. The most ecological option is therefore to opt for reusable food containers, especially those made of glass.