Oncologists Are Begging People To Throw Out This Common Kitchen Item
The wellness space is full of promises-"magic cures" and "one-stop shops" for preventing chronic illness. It would be great if any of those claims held up, especially when it comes to cancer, a disease none of us want or would wish on anyone. But they don't, in part because cancer has no single cause.
"[Cancer] is usually the result of a combination of genetics, aging, lifestyle, environmental exposures and sometimes simple bad luck," explains Dr. Amar Rewari, MD, the chief of radiation oncology for Luminis Health, an adjunct professor at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and the co-host of Value Health Voices Podcast.
The information about how different products, like the ones we keep in our kitchens, may contribute to cancer risk is scary and overwhelming. But another oncologist points out that understanding these risks is actually empowering. Unlike certain risk factors, we can choose kitchen items and habits, such as diet and exercise.
"Unfortunately, we have no control over a family history of cancer and any genetic predispositions that may put us at risk of developing certain types of cancer," says Dr. Roshani Patel, MD, FACS, the breast program medical director and breast surgical oncologist at Hackensack Meridian Jersey Shore University Medical Center. "But we can control our lifestyle."
Dr. Rewari agrees, saying it's important to keep risk factors in perspective. "The biggest drivers of cancer risk are still things like smoking, obesity, alcohol use, UV exposure, poor diet and lack of screening," he says. "Household products are more about small, long-term exposures rather than major immediate dangers."
Still, they're worth considering in the short term. To help oncologists reveal the one kitchen item they are begging people to throw out to lower their cancer risks.
Oncologists Are Begging People To Throw Out This Common Kitchen Item
Three oncologists agree: It's time to throw out murky, cracked plastic food containers. These containers might contribute to a higher cancer risk for several reasons if you use them consistently, and it's best to avoid using them altogether.
"Cloudy, scratched or cracked plastic containers are usually signs the material is breaking down," explains Dr. Tingting Tan, MD, Ph.D., a medical oncologist at City of Hope. "One concern is that worn plastic may release more particles or chemical compounds into food, particularly when exposed to heat. Researchers are still studying the long-term effects of microplastics and chemical exposure, but many experts believe reducing unnecessary exposure is a reasonable precaution."
In addition to hand-washing plastic food containers in scalding-hot water or in the dishwasher, we may reheat leftovers in the microwave. Unfortunately, research suggests that habit may only raise cancer risk.
"Heat is one of the biggest factors because it can increase the movement of chemicals from plastic into food," Dr. Rewari says. "This is especially true with fatty foods, sauces, soups or foods heated for long periods."
Is there any plastic that's "microwave safe" from chemical leaching and microplastics?
"Even containers labeled 'microwave safe' are mainly tested to make sure they do not melt or become unsafe for basic use," he clarifies. "That does not necessarily mean zero chemical transfer occurs. The overall risk is probably small, but from a practical standpoint, heating food in glass or ceramic is a safer long-term habit."
If you have damaged, murky plastic food containers, you may be internally spiraling. We get it, but oncologists encourage a calmer approach. For starters: "Many people likely have murky plastic containers used for food storage and cooking and do not have cancer," Dr. Patel says.
Dr. Tan agrees, but says it's reasonable to think about alternatives. "[This] doesn't mean people should fear every plastic container in their kitchen," she explains. "But when there are easy ways to reduce potentially worrisome exposures, especially around food and heat, they're worth considering."
Related: Oncologists Are Begging You To Stop Making This Microwave Mistake Immediately
What To Do if You Have Plastic Food Containers
Besides not panic? Oncologists share it's a good idea to understand when it's time to ditch a plastic food container.
Dr. Rewari says it's time to replace plastic containers if they have:
- Cracks
- Deep scratches
- Cloudiness
- Loose lids
- Persistent odors that do not wash out
"Those changes suggest the plastic is degrading," he emphasizes.
After getting rid of the containers, you may need something else to store your food in. Dr. Tan suggests considering non-plastic alternatives.
"Glass containers are probably my favorite option because they're durable, easy to clean and safe for reheating," she says. "Ceramic containers can also work well for certain foods. Stainless steel is another good option, especially for lunches and cold food storage, though it shouldn't be used in the microwave."
Related: The One Thing Oncologists Wish People Would Stop Storing in Their Fridge
3 Other Ways To Lower Cancer Risk Without Leaving Your Kitchen
Microplastics are scary and are still being investigated by scientists. Still, it's worth removing cracked and otherwise damaged plastic food containers from your kitchen. While you're in there, oncologists say that there are a few other steps you can take to lower your cancer risk.
1. Limit heavily processed and heavily charred foods
Dr. Rewari stresses that cooking methods are important. "Very high heat and heavy charring can create compounds that have been linked to cancer risk in laboratory studies," he notes. "You do not need to avoid grilling completely, but it is smart to avoid burning food regularly and to balance meals with fruits, vegetables and fiber-rich foods."
2. Keep your sweet tooth in check
Dr. Patel advises that women aim to have six teaspoons or less of added sugar daily, and men should limit their intake to nine teaspoons daily.
"Eating less sugar reduces inflammation and sugar spikes in the body, which can indirectly increase one's cancer risk," she states. "We are fortunate that food labels list ‘added sugars.' Try to stay away from those."
If your sweet tooth is feeling sour, Dr. Patel suggests foods with natural sugars. Think berries, citrus fruits and plain yogurt. "Even honey is OK in moderation," she says.
3. Pay attention to alcohol intake
The conversation about alcohol is evolving, including on red wine.
"Many people are surprised to learn alcohol is a known risk factor for cancer, and there is no scientifically proven 'safe' amount of drinking," Dr. Tan notes. "Even modest reductions in alcohol consumption can be a meaningful benefit for an individual's overall long-term health."
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Sources:
- Dr. Roshani Patel, MD, FACS, the breast program medical director and breast surgical oncologist at Hackensack Meridian Jersey Shore University Medical Center
- Dr. Amar Rewari, MD, the chief of radiation oncology for Luminis Health, an adjunct professor at Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine and the co-host of Value Health Voices Podcast
- Dr. Tingting Tan, MD, Ph.D., a medical oncologist at City of Hope
- Derivatives of Plastics as Potential Carcinogenic Factors: The Current State of Knowledge. Cancers.
- Assessing the Release of Microplastics and Nanoplastics from Plastic Containers and Reusable Food Pouches: Implications for Human Health. Environmental Science & Technology.
- Chemicals in Meat Cooked at High Temperatures and Cancer Risk. National Cancer Institute.
- How Much Sugar Is Too Much? American Heart Association.
- Alcohol and Cancer. CDC.
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This story was originally published June 2, 2026 at 4:26 PM.