In Northern Michigan, ‘Spring’ really doesn’t exist. We experience winter and have the month of July. Maybe August, if we are lucky. Other than that, the weather is just … weather. Still, the concept of Spring cleaning has taken a hold of this dude. Without even thinking of it, I was getting things accomplished. Checking tasks off a to do list is quite satisfying.
Thankfully, my blog was ‘cleaned’ a few months back. However, I realized one item needed to be wrapped up – literally.
the culinary ‘after thought’
- Plastic wrap was originally made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) plastic, which is notoriously hard to recycle and its toxicity has been questionable. However, low density polyethylene (LDPE) is becoming more common, and manufacturers have been continually improving their products to create totally non-toxic food wraps.
- The accidental invention of plastic wrap in 1933 is attributed to Ralph Wiley from Dow Chemical. The substance was originally used by the military as a spray on planes and other vehicles, to protect them from rust and other deterioration.
- Plastic wrap was not developed as a food wrap until 1949, when it was first used in the food industry, and it was not until 1953 that it was available for home use.
Granted plastic wrap doesn’t have too many loose ends. (pun intended) But, my made FOR cooking post a few weeks back had one. And, I’m in cleaning mode – don’t fuck with me when I’m in the mode.
Yes and No
… plastic wrap can be used in the microwave. It is recommend that users poke holes for steam ventilation. However, high fat food (gross) can melt the plastic wrap if heated to a high enough temperature. (grosser) By the way, I so disagree. I never use it in the microwave.
… plastic wrap is not to be used in conventional ovens, stove tops, or toaster ovens. The plastic will melt if used in any of these cooking units. Duhhh! Though, I’m certain some of my dumb-ass customers have tried this. Then, they called the pharmacy because they got burned.
common uses –
Plastic wrap will protect food when in the freezer. It is recommended that no air be between the plastic wrap and the food. That will help protect the food from freezer burn. Yeah, Good luck with the ‘no air’ thing.
uncommon uses –
It has been rumored that a piece of Saran Wrap can be used as an impromptu condom. Unfortunately, it cannot withstand the friction of intercourse. And, its barrier protection is inadequate, to say the least. Imagine that?!
Plastic wrap is touted by some spas as a means of permanently losing weight. The application of plastic wrap dipped in an herbal substance causes sweating, which is supposed to detoxify the body, aiding in weight loss. First of all, permanent should never be used when discussing weight loss unless certain lifestyle choices are formidably maintained. Second, those that even think this would be permanent should rethink more than just their weight loss intentions.
the final seal
Well, my culinary after thought is officially thunk. One more thing checked off that list.
Happy Spring Clinging!
