Borosilicate glass is a type of glass that is known for its strength and durability. It is often used in laboratory glassware and kitchenware. Borosilicate glass is also non-porous, which means that it does not absorb liquids or bacteria. This makes it a good choice for food storage and preparation.
However, not all borosilicate glass is food safe. Some borosilicate glass products may contain traces of heavy metals, such as lead and arsenic. These metals can leach into food and drink, and they can be harmful to your health.
How to Tell if Borosilicate Glass is Food Safe
There are a few ways to tell if borosilicate glass is food safe:
- Look for a label that says “food safe.”
- Check the manufacturer’s website or contact the manufacturer directly to ask if the product is food safe.
- Look for a third-party certification, such as the NSF International or the FDA.
What to Do if You Are Not Sure if Borosilicate Glass is Food Safe
If you are not sure if borosilicate glass is food safe, it is best to on the side of caution and avoid using it for food storage or preparation. There are many other food-safe materials available, such as stainless steel, glass, and ceramic.
Tips for Using Borosilicate Glass
If you do use borosilicate glass for food storage or preparation, there are a few things you can do to minimize your exposure to heavy metals:
- Avoid using borosilicate glass in the microwave.
- Do not use abrasive cleaners or scouring pads on borosilicate glass.
- Hand-wash borosilicate glass instead of using a dishwasher.
- Do not store acidic foods or liquids in borosilicate glass for long periods of time.
Conclusion
Not all borosilicate glass is food safe. If you are not sure if a borosilicate glass product is food safe, it is best to avoid using it for food storage or preparation. There are many other food-safe materials available.
Additional Resources
I hope this information helps you to make informed decisions about using borosilicate glass for food storage and preparation.