Every day, millions of meals are delivered to doorsteps across the country. We order in for comfort, for convenience, for celebration. But have we ever stopped to ask—at what cost?
We’ve all seen the neatly packed takeout boxes, the steaming curries, the sizzling biryanis. But what we don’t see is what happens when hot food meets plastic. Harmful chemicals leach into our meals, disrupting our hormones, increasing our toxic load, and silently compromising our health.
As an integrative expert working with individuals facing hormonal imbalances, infertility, autoimmune conditions, and cancer, among several other health and lifestyle conditions, I see a disturbing pattern—one that’s closely tied to what we eat and how it’s packaged. This isn’t just about sustainability. This is about the food we put into our bodies, the unseen toxins we consume, and the impact they have on our long-term health.
Are We Trading Convenience for Our Health?
If restaurants, delivery giants, and packaging companies won’t make the change, we need to demand it. We need to wake up, speak up, and push for safer alternatives—because our health depends on it. We must claim the right to honest food.
Today, I’m taking the time to answer a few questions people have always asked me about the use of plastic containers in the food they order and what we can do about it.
1. We recently shared an Instagram post on the health risks of food delivered in plastic containers. Why is this detrimental? Why am I so invested in this cause?
The inspiration to highlight this issue stems from an alarming pattern we’ve observed over the years, particularly in cases of hormonal imbalances and chronic health conditions. As part of my work with cancer patients and individuals dealing with hormone-dependent issues like PCOS, endometriosis, and infertility, I’ve seen how toxins from plastics contribute significantly to these health challenges.
The science is undeniable: When hot food is packed in plastic containers, chemicals like BPA and phthalates leach into the food, mimicking hormones in the body and causing long-term harm. I’ve been aware of this for a while, but the tipping point came from the sheer volume of food delivery services being used today. With the rising convenience culture, people are unknowingly putting their health at risk daily.
What made this the right time to speak up is the broader conversation around sustainability and health. We’re becoming more conscious of how our choices impact the environment, yet we often overlook the harm our packaging choices do to our bodies. By raising awareness about this, I hope to spark a conversation that empowers consumers and encourages food aggregators to consider safer, more sustainable options. At the end of the day, this is about protecting our health and future generations.
2. How does heat from hot food in plastic containers lead to the release of BPA and other toxins? What health risks can this pose?
When hot food is placed in plastic containers, the heat interacts with the plastic material, causing it to break down and release harmful chemicals like Bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates. The health risks associated with these toxins are significant.
Bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates are endocrine disruptors that leach into food when heated. These substances are known as endocrine disruptors, meaning they mimic or interfere with the body’s natural hormones, particularly estrogen. Studies show that it can lead to hormonal imbalances, PCOS, infertility, obesity, metabolic disorders, and increased cancer risk. A study published in Environmental Health Perspectives found that BPA exposure is linked to increased risks of breast and prostate cancer.

Research published in The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that higher BPA levels in urine are associated with an increased risk of insulin resistance and obesity. Chronic exposure also increases the likelihood of thyroid disorders and fertility issues.

Studies also show that hot, oily, and acidic foods accelerate the breakdown of plastic, leading to higher contamination levels. Research from Environmental Science & Technology found that fatty foods stored in plastic containers absorb up to 55 times more phthalates than dry foods.
This risk is compounded when hot food is tightly sealed in plastic containers, as the trapped heat and steam accelerate the chemical leaching process. Even so-called BPA-free plastics often contain other harmful chemicals that pose similar risks. The effects may not be immediate, but the long-term impact on cellular health, hormone regulation, and overall well-being is undeniable. This is why it’s so important to rethink the materials we use for packaging and storing hot food.
What happens when you microwave these containers?
Every time we store or heat food in plastic, we’re exposing ourselves to something we can’t even see—microplastics. Studies by the National Center of Biotechnology Information (NCBI) have shown that when plastic food containers are exposed to high temperatures, they can release over 10 million microplastic particles per milliliter into water. Think about that for a second—tiny, invisible plastic particles making their way into your body with every bite. Another study by PubMed found that microwaving plastic baby food containers can release billions of nanoplastic particles.
And it’s not just heat—research shows that plastic containers, when used repeatedly, leach even more microplastics over time. This isn’t just about environmental pollution anymore; it’s about what we’re putting into our bodies every single day. These microplastics don’t just pass through us—they’ve been found in human blood, lungs, and even the placenta. The question is, what is this doing to our health long term? It’s time we start paying attention, making better choices, and demanding safer alternatives from food delivery services and packaging companies.

3. With an increase in food deliveries, what are some important ‘dos and don’ts’ for people who order takeaways?
Food deliveries are at an all-time high, and while it’s convenient, it’s essential to make conscious choices to protect your health and reduce the risks associated with plastic packaging. Here are some key dos and don’ts:
Dos:
- Transfer Immediately: As soon as your food arrives, transfer it from the plastic container into a glass, ceramic, or stainless steel dish. This reduces the time hot food spends in contact with plastic, minimizing chemical leaching.
- Choose Eco-Friendly Restaurants: Opt for restaurants that use biodegradable or eco-friendly packaging made from materials like paper, bamboo, or plant fibers. Many health-conscious establishments are making this switch, and supporting them sends a powerful message.
- Simplify Orders: Consider ordering dishes that don’t require excessive packaging. For instance, cook your rice at home and order just the curry. This reduces both exposure to harmful chemicals and waste.
- Request Minimal Packaging: When placing your order, leave a note asking for reduced packaging or cutlery. Most food delivery apps have a section for special instructions.
- Be Mindful of Beverages: If you’re ordering drinks, ask for no plastic lids or straws, or better yet, make your own drinks at home.

Don’ts:
- Avoid Styrofoam: Styrofoam is one of the worst materials for leaching harmful toxins into hot food. Avoid ordering from places that use styrofoam packaging.
- Don’t Reheat in Plastic: Even if the container says microwave-safe, never reheat food in plastic. These labels only indicate the plastic won’t melt—not that it won’t release toxins.
- Stay Away from Certain Foods: Avoid ordering high-risk foods like soups, curries, or oily dishes in plastic containers. These are more likely to absorb harmful chemicals due to their heat and oil content.

Every small step counts. By making these conscious choices during the festive season, you not only protect your health but also contribute to a larger movement advocating for safer and more sustainable packaging practices. Let’s enjoy these flavors while keeping both our bodies and the environment in mind.
Want to Join the Campaign? Sign our Petition Here.
4. Are there any particular types of food or cuisines that people should especially avoid ordering in plastic containers due to their high temperature or oil content?
Yes, certain types of food are more likely to absorb harmful chemicals from plastic containers due to their heat, oil content, or acidic nature. Here are the key culprits to watch out for:
- Hot Soups and Broths
- Why to Avoid Plastic: Steaming-hot soups create the perfect environment for plastic to release toxins like BPA and phthalates into the liquid.
- Better Option: Transfer the soup into a glass or ceramic bowl immediately or opt for restaurants offering eco-friendly, compostable packaging.
- Curries and Stews (Especially Oily or Spicy Ones)
- Why to Avoid Plastic: The combination of heat, oil, and spices acts as a solvent, breaking down plastic and allowing chemicals to leach into the food.
- Better Option: Request eco-friendly containers when ordering or transfer to a safe dish immediately upon delivery.
- Fried Foods (e.g., Stir-Fries, Noodles, Fried Rice)
- Why to Avoid Plastic: These dishes retain heat and are often packed tightly in plastic, increasing the risk of chemicals leaching from the container.
- Better Option: Look for restaurants using paper or biodegradable boxes for fried items.
- Tomato-Based or Acidic Foods (e.g., Pasta in Tomato Sauce, Tikka Masala)
- Why to Avoid Plastic: Acidic foods accelerate the breakdown of plastic, leading to higher levels of chemical contamination.
- Better Option: Choose establishments using compostable materials like bamboo or cardboard for packing such dishes.
- Grilled or Baked Items in Plastic Wrapping (e.g., Grilled Meats, Roasted Vegetables)
- Why to Avoid Plastic: These items are often served hot and wrapped tightly, which traps heat and moisture, encouraging plastic to break down faster.
- Better Option: Opt for biodegradable alternatives.

- Hot Beverages (e.g., Tea, Coffee, or Hot Chocolate)
- Why to Avoid Plastic: Hot liquids in plastic cups or lids can lead to direct ingestion of toxins and microplastics.
- Better Option: Carry a reusable cup or choose places offering paper cups with compostable lids.
Safer Choices for Takeaway
- Salads, sushi, or other cold foods are less likely to interact with plastic and are generally safer for delivery.
- Bakery items, typically packed in paper or cardboard, also pose minimal risk.
By being mindful of these food types and their packaging, you can significantly reduce your exposure to harmful chemicals while still enjoying your favorite meals.
5. What changes do we wish to see from food aggregators like Zomato and Swiggy while switching to more sustainable packaging options?
We’re not experts in food packaging solutions, but we’ve identified a critical problem. Now, we need experts to come together, discuss, and explore better, sustainable packaging options to address this issue effectively. Zomato and Swiggy are in a unique position to lead meaningful change in food delivery. Here’s how they can make a difference:
- Introduce Sustainable Packaging: Collaborate with restaurants to provide biodegradable or compostable packaging for hot, oily, and acidic foods. Offer customers the choice to opt for these eco-friendly options, even at an additional cost.
- Set Clear Guidelines: Establish packaging standards for partner restaurants, discouraging the use of styrofoam and low-quality plastics.
- Incentivize Restaurants and Customers: Reduce commission fees for restaurants using sustainable packaging and reward customers with loyalty points or discounts for choosing eco-friendly options.
- Educate and Raise Awareness: Use their platforms to inform customers about the health risks of plastic and the benefits of sustainable packaging.
- Foster Collaboration: Partner with experts to innovate affordable, health-conscious packaging solutions.
- Advocate for Policy Changes: Support government initiatives that incentivize biodegradable materials and stricter regulations on single-use plastics.
By adopting these changes, food aggregators can protect consumer health, reduce environmental impact, and lead the way in building a more sustainable food delivery ecosystem. These steps are small but critical for a healthier future.

6. How can consumers support or advocate for sustainable packaging? Are there ways they can help encourage the shift towards safer, more eco-friendly packaging?
Absolutely! Consumers play a vital role in driving change. Here are some practical ways to make an impact:
- Choose Restaurants Offering Eco-Friendly Options: Support businesses that prioritize sustainable packaging, even if it comes at a slightly higher cost. It sends a clear message that health and the environment matter.
- Leave Feedback: Use app comments or reviews to request eco-friendly packaging. Highlight that it’s important to you as a customer—brands pay attention to these voices.
- Minimize Waste: Ask for minimal packaging when ordering and skip plastic cutlery or extra condiments if you don’t need them.
- Spread Awareness: Share posts, reviews, or conversations about the dangers of plastic and the benefits of sustainable alternatives. Your influence might inspire others to act.
- Engage on Social Media: Use platforms to tag and encourage companies like Swiggy and Zomato to adopt biodegradable packaging.
- Advocate for Policy Change: Support campaigns or petitions urging regulatory bodies to promote sustainable packaging.
Small, mindful choices can push the food industry towards safer, eco-friendly practices. Every order you place is a vote for the kind of future you want to see.
Take Action: Your Health, Your Choice
Every meal you order, every food container you accept—these choices shape your long-term health. The science is clear: plastic packaging is more than just an environmental issue; it’s directly affecting our hormones, gut health, and overall well-being.
Let’s demand better. Choose restaurants that prioritize safe, biodegradable packaging. Leave feedback on food delivery apps, urging them to shift away from harmful plastics. And most importantly, whenever possible, opt for fresh, home-cooked meals—your body will thank you.
Share this with your friends, family, and food aggregators like Swiggy, Zomato, and Uber Eats to push for change. The power is in our hands. Let’s make food delivery safer for everyone.
Join the conversation; demand accountability by signing the petition now and make your voice heard for a healthier, more honest India!
Drop a comment or write to your favorite restaurant to make the switch!
A version of this interview appeared in Navhind Times.
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Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is intended for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult with your healthcare provider before making any changes to your diet, exercise routine, or lifestyle. Results may vary depending on individual health conditions, and the effectiveness of the strategies mentioned may differ from person to person. The content is based on current research, but it is important to remember that science and health recommendations may evolve over time.
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