3 Oncologists Agree: It’s Time To Toss This Everyday Kitchen Staple

Most of us have a cabinet full of them: tons of plastic containers that have held everything from last night’s soup to the kids’ leftover spaghetti for years. But doctors who specialize in treating cancer say some of them have outstayed their welcome. Now, clearing them out is one of the simplest swaps you can make for your long-term health. And it doesn’t take long to do.

First, you should know that there’s no single thing that causes cancer, and no magic fix that prevents it. We spoke to the experts, who confirmed as much: “[Cancer] is usually the result of a combination of genetics, aging, lifestyle, environmental exposures, and sometimes simple bad luck,” explained Dr. Amar Rewari, MD, chief of radiation oncology at Luminis Health and adjunct professor at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine.

The good news, doctors note, is that while you can’t change your family history, you do get a say over plenty of the everyday choices in your kitchen, and that’s where this one easy change comes in.

The Kitchen Item Oncologists Want You To Throw Out

The culprit? Old plastic food containers that have turned cloudy, scratched, or cracked. Three oncologists say those well-worn tubs are worth retiring, especially if you reach for them day after day. And let’s be honest, there are some of us who end up reaching for them a lot more than others.

“Cloudy, scratched, or cracked plastic containers are usually signs the material is breaking down,” says Dr. Tingting Tan, MD, Ph.D., a medical oncologist at City of Hope. “One concern is that worn plastic may release more particles or chemical compounds into food, particularly when exposed to heat.” She adds that scientists are still studying the long-term effects of microplastics, but cutting back on unnecessary exposure is a sensible precaution.

Heat turns out to be the real trouble spot. Think microwaving leftovers or running containers through a scalding dishwasher. “Heat is one of the biggest factors because it can increase the movement of chemicals from plastic into food,” Dr. Rewari says, noting that fatty foods, sauces, and soups are especially prone to it.

And if you’re counting on that “microwave safe” label to protect you? Not quite. As Dr. Rewari explains, those labels mostly mean a container won’t melt. It doesn’t mean things are totally safe from being transferred into your meal. His practical takeaway: warming food in glass or ceramic is a safer habit over time.

Before you start panicking over every lid in the drawer, though, take a beat to think about which dishes you’re actually throwing away.

“Many people likely have murky plastic containers used for food storage and cooking and do not have cancer,” says Dr. Roshani Patel, MD, FACS, breast surgical oncologist at Hackensack Meridian Jersey Shore University Medical Center. Dr. Tan reiterates that the goal isn’t to fear your kitchen, but to take some easy wins when you can get them.

When To Say Goodbye and What To Use Instead

Not sure if a container has had its day? Dr. Rewari says it’s time to let go when you spot cracks, deep scratches, cloudiness, lids that no longer seal, or smells that just won’t wash out. Any of those means the plastic is wearing down.

As for replacements, Dr. Tan has a clear favorite. “Glass containers are probably my favorite option because they’re durable, easy to clean, and safe for reheating,” she says. Ceramic works nicely for many foods, and stainless steel is great for lunches and cold storage. Just try to keep it out of the microwave.

3 More Easy Ways To Lower Your Risk Right in the Kitchen

While you’re sorting through cabinets, you can think about a few other habits that can help you get rid of the offending plastic in there.

You can start going easy on heavy, charred, and ultra-processed foods. Dr. Rewari notes that very high heat and charring can produce compounds tied to cancer risk. You don’t have to give up the grill entirely. Hust skip the burnt bits and load up on fruits, veggies, and fiber instead.

Second, keep an eye on added sugar. Dr. Patel suggests that women aim for six teaspoons a day or less, and men aim for nine, since cutting back helps tame inflammation. When a craving hits, she points to naturally sweet options like berries, citrus, and plain yogurt, and a little honey is fine in moderation. When it comes to taking care of yourself, most things are.

Finally, be mindful of alcohol. “Many people are surprised to learn alcohol is a known risk factor for cancer, and there is no scientifically proven “safe” amount of drinking,” Dr. Tan says, adding that even modest cutbacks can pay off for your overall health. And if you decide to stop drinking entirely, that’s even better when it comes to keeping your well-being in check.

Using these tips can help improve your health picture. But in the end, you don’t have to completely gut your cupboard. There