A recent international analysis by Greenpeace highlights the dangers associated with heating plastic-packaged ready meals and take-out food, which can release hundreds of thousands of micro and nanoplastic particles, as well as toxic chemicals, into the food. The report synthesized findings from 24 recent scientific studies, revealing that products marketed as 'heat-safe' expose consumers to invisible contaminants. The leader of Greenpeace's global plastic campaign, Graham Forbes, critiques insufficient regulations and successful lobbying by the food and plastics industries for transforming kitchens into testing laboratories.

The conclusions drawn from the analysis challenge the claims made by manufacturers of micro-durable packaging, suggesting they are overly optimistic. The detailed examination underscores the intricacies of our global food system, particularly as the reliance on processed and pre-packaged food increases. This revelation is particularly alarming given the prevalence of these meals in diets worldwide and adds pressure for revisiting regulatory frameworks surrounding food safety.

Forbes emphasized that the current state of regulation is inadequate and poses significant risks not only to human health but also to environmental sustainability. As ready-made meals represent a rapidly growing segment of the food market, this report serves as a wake-up call for consumers and policymakers to demand stricter safety standards and increased accountability from food manufacturers regarding packaging safety and consumer health.