How to deal with moldy plastic rings on lunch boxes

After the plastic ring of the lunch box becomes moldy, it is recommended to replace it with a new accessory directly. The moldy plastic ring may breed harmful mold, and continuing to use it poses health risks. If it cannot be replaced temporarily, it can be temporarily cleaned by high-temperature disinfection, soaking in white vinegar, scrubbing with baking soda, wiping with alcohol, or treating with bleach diluent.

High temperature disinfection is the most thorough temporary treatment method. After completely disassembling the plastic ring and boiling it in boiling water for more than 5 minutes, high temperature can effectively kill most mold spores. During operation, it is necessary to ensure that the plastic ring is resistant to high temperatures and avoid deformation. Soaking in white vinegar is suitable for mild mold spots. Soak the plastic ring in a 1:1 mixture of white vinegar and water for 2 hours. Acetic acid can decompose the mold structure. Baking soda scrubbing is suitable for surface mold stains. Dip a damp cloth in baking soda powder and repeatedly wipe the blackened area. Its weak alkalinity can neutralize the acidic metabolites of mold.

Alcohol wiping can quickly remove visible mold spots, and 75% medical alcohol can directly damage mold cell membranes, but alcohol evaporates quickly and has limited effect on deep mold. Caution should be exercised when handling bleach diluents. Dilute chlorine containing bleach in a 1:10 ratio and soak for 10 minutes. Strong oxidizing agents can completely kill mold, but may corrode plastic materials. After the above methods are used, they should be thoroughly rinsed with water and dried in the sun until completely dry. A humid environment will accelerate the recurrence of mold.

Long term prevention requires keeping the lunch box dry and ventilated for storage. After each use, the plastic ring should be disassembled and cleaned separately to avoid the accumulation of food residue. Choosing BPA free food grade silicone sealing rings instead of plastic accessories is safer. Silicone material has good antibacterial properties and high temperature resistance for disinfection. If cracks or discoloration are found in the plastic ring, it should be replaced immediately. Harmful substances such as aflatoxin produced by mold should be removed with cleaning agents, but they may still remain. Long term exposure may affect gastrointestinal health. It is recommended to check and replace the sealing accessories every 3-6 months, especially for lunch boxes used by infants and young children, and pay attention to hygiene and safety.