Question from kk

I frequently use the Dixie brand “to-go” coffee mugs (our cafeteria provides these). I realize that these may not be the most environmentally sound mugs, but I do reuse the same one throughout the day. I have assumed because they are made for hot products that they are microwave safe, however, I am now concerned they are made with a plastic or bleach of some sort that is not safe.

Likewise, our cafeteria at work serves us food on paper plates and bowls (the ones that are white or sometimes have designs). Are these safe to eat off of? Or are they chemicals on these plates I should be concerned about?

I have been eliminating paper goods at home, but at work, where I am on the go, I rely on our cafeteria.

Thanks!

Debra’s Answer

White paper products are mostly bleached with chlorine.

The Minnesota North Star chapter of the Sierra Club describes the problems with bleached paper:

Bleaching is done using the gas form of chlorine; therefore, it produces a lot of unwanted emissions. During the process, naturally occurring chemicals called dioxins in the wood react with added chlorine, producing a residue with dangerous and toxic dioxins. As this residue is then released into rivers, lakes, or other water reservoirs, it has a tendency to accumulate in sediments where it stays until it gets picked up by fish or any other organisms. Dioxins have a really long decomposition period and therefore they bioaccumulate in the organisms that accidentally ingest them. Dioxins have a tendency to move upwards in the food chain. Therefore, first accumulating in food products like milk and fish, they can fast travel to humans and other mammals. According to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration the health consequences of being exposed to dioxins can result in development of cancer, damages in developmental and reproductive processes, immune system damages, diabetes, etc. For more information on dioxins please visit the Environmental Protection Agencys (EPA) web site: Dioxin (pdf).

So it’s better to use unbleached paper products, for both health and environmental reasons.