Plastic containers are everywhere and its use has greatly increased over the years due to their affordability to make, and convenient use to store food and liquids. However, the use of plastics poses many health risks through the release and leeching of harmful chemicals.

Dioxin is one such chemical extremely harmful and highly poisonous to the cells of the body. It is released in the food through the combination of fatty foods, high heat, and plastic. When we heat our food with plastic and eat this food, dioxin enters the cells of our bodies.

The following are some steps one can take to avoid heating food in plastic containers:

• Transfer to glass containers. Transfer ready-made food bought at the market/restaurant that is in plastic or aluminum containers to glass or serving dishes. This is the best solution I have found so far for storing food or keeping it warm. Use tempered glass containers such as CorningWare, Pyrex, or ceramic containers.

• Use a bamboo steamer. The best way to heat food is on the stove top under low heat or through a bamboo steamer. This works great for vegetables or left-over food. It may take longer than a minute, but the benefits are well worth it. Use the extra time to do other things in the kitchen while the food is being reheated.

• Avoid freezing plastic. Frozen water bottles allow the plastic to release toxins in the water. Sometimes I freeze water bottles as an alternative to ice packs, but I don't drink the water from it.

• Try not to leave water-filled plastic bottles in the car. The combination of heat and plastic will release toxins. This water has now become unsafe for consumption. Drink all the water before leaving the car or buy a water bottle made of stainless steel that is easy to carry and will last for years.

Other alternatives include the use of paper containers and while it is not as bad as plastic, no one really knows what is in the paper other than made from recycled products.