My husband, a mathematician, tells me that a mathematical truth once established will remain eternally true. Alas, that is not the case with the other sciences — more so the medical science.

‘Truths’ in health research is constantly subject to modification, even radical change. In fact, on many an occasion, the accepted wisdom is turned around completely.

I refer specifically to the long-held idea, backed in past by scientific research, that has regarded plastic cookware as generally safe if it conforms to a certain standard.

There is now a raging debate on the safety level of such plastics. Conflicting studies and reports abound that tend to make things more muddled. Accusations that such studies are sometimes backed by commercial interests do not make things any easier. Various categories of plastic are used for food storage and cooking. Sometime ago, there were a certain category of plastics that were regarded as ‘microwave proof’. But latest research indicates that all plastics leach some chemicals when subject to microwave.

The use of plastics in the food and toy industries too, has been phenomenal. There was a basis to this dominance. Plastic-based items are more durable and less expensive. But the awareness of the potential cost in terms of health is growing.

nsingh.rxpress@expressindia.com

(To be continued)