Can you ferment kimchi in a plastic container? Compare fermenting in plastic versus traditional glass or ceramic to see which is safest for your kimchi.
1 Answer
While you *can* ferment kimchi in a food-grade plastic container, glass or ceramic is highly recommended due to potential issues with plastic leaching and odor absorption.
Detailed Explanation:
Fermenting kimchi produces lactic acid, which is corrosive. While food-grade plastics are designed to withstand some acidity, prolonged exposure can lead to leaching of chemicals from the plastic into your kimchi. This not only affects the taste but also poses potential health risks. Furthermore, plastic containers tend to absorb the strong odors of kimchi, making them difficult to clean and potentially tainting future batches or other foods stored in the same container. Glass and ceramic are non-reactive materials, meaning they won't leach chemicals or absorb odors, making them the safer and more reliable choice for kimchi fermentation. They are also easier to clean thoroughly.
Pro Tip:
When using glass jars, ensure they are tempered and designed for canning or fermentation to withstand the pressure buildup from the fermentation process. Avoid using thin, decorative glass jars that could shatter.