Pickling safety: Why plastic bottles aren't the best choice

Although we still have to wait a bit for local cucumbers, imported varieties can be easily found in the market. According to many, our native varieties are the best. Freshly harvested, they are exceptionally crunchy on the outside, juicy on the inside, and simply delicious. We also happily pickle them to enjoy year-round.

Raw cucumbers make a great snack, but it's also worth having homemade pickles in the pantry. These fermented treats provide the body with B and C vitamins, as well as magnesium, potassium, and other minerals that support immunity and digestion. The key, however, is to ensure they are properly prepared.

The best choice for pickling cucumbers is ceramic vessels, such as stoneware pots, or glass jars. These are perfect for preparing smaller batches that can be stored in the basement over the winter. Some believe that large plastic water bottles, usually with a capacity of about 4 litres, are a good method for preserves. There are also those who opt for bags.

"Do not pickle cucumbers in plastic bottles or zip-lock bags! These are not products designed for this purpose, and research shows that such practices increase the amount of substances released from the material into our food," warns Sylwia Panek, author of the Instagram profile "in a healthy home."

According to her, the best option for pickling cucumbers is containers made of natural materials. "That's why it's best to choose glass for homemade preserves (optionally, ceramic vessels are also great if you have them)," she emphasizes.

Her post has received many comments from people who share her opinion.

"People who make pickled cucumbers in plastic aren't convinced by any research; you can talk endlessly like talking to a wall, as they prefer the taste from plastic bottles;"

"I have to admit that I once followed the trend of pickling in plastic bottles, but fortunately, it never worked out for me this way, but in glass, it's always perfect."