A Fresh Spin on Microwaving Food in Plastic Containers
Using Plastic in the Microwave: Safe or Not?
Warning Bells Ring: If you've been warming up leftovers in those Tupperware boxes, think again! According to health and science experts, heating food in plastic containers may not be as safe as you think. The reason? These containers could potentially release harmful chemicals that can be harmful to your health.
Counterfeit Safety Labels: But what about those plastic containers bearing the "microwave-safe" label? Well, it's not quite that straightforward. While these containers may withstand microwave temperatures and not warp, it doesn't mean they're entirely safe.
A Chemical Concern: One common chemical of concern is bisphenol A, or BPA, a hormone-disrupting chemical that can accumulate in human tissue and can lead to potential health risks, such as hormonal and metabolic disruptions, and other noncommunicable diseases [1].
Research Speaks: Recent research published in Endocrinology highlights the potential dangers of BPA, especially when it comes to low doses of BPA altering hormone-sensitive organs [2].
Embrace Change: To put it simply, it's best to avoid microwaving your food in most plastic containers whenever possible.
A Closer Look at "Microwave-Safe" Labels: The USDA cautions that even though plastic containers carry the "microwave-safe" label, it doesn't mean that they're entirely safe for cooking. Cold storage containers like margarine tubs, cottage cheese, and yogurt cartons are not approved for cooking as chemicals can potentially migrate into food [3].
State-by-State BPA Debate: So, what about those plastic containers labeled as safe for the microwave? Well, the FDA states that BPA is safe at the current levels occurring in foods, but it's worth noting that the FDA's stance is not universal. BPA restrictions vary by region, with the European Union banning it in food contact materials, and Canada restricting its use in some products for health and environmental reasons [3].
Opt for Heatproof Substitutes: So, what can you safely use to reheat your food in the microwave instead? According to Elizabeth Harris, RDN, certified nutritionist, you can use heatproof glass, glass-ceramic, wax and parchment paper, most paper plates and napkins-especially plain white ones, and utensils labeled microwave-safe [4].
Brands for Safe Food Storage: If you're looking for a more durable vessel, consider brands like Anyday Microwave Cookware, which offer glass containers with microwave-safe stainless steel designed for food storage, reheating, and even cooking. Their products minimize the need to rely on potentially hazardous materials like plastic [4].
The Bottom Line: While there's no need to throw away all your plastic containers, it's advisable to limit their use in the microwave. By opting for heatproof or microwave-safe alternatives, you can ensure your food remains free from harmful chemicals that could potentially be harmful to your health.
Sources:
[1] https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7846099/
[2] https://www.fsis.usda.gov/food-safety/safe-food-handling-and-preparation/food-safety-basics/cooking-microwave-ovens
[3] https://www.fda.gov/food/food-packaging-other-substances-come-contact-food-information-consumers/bisphenol-bpa-use-food-contact-application
[4] https://www.usda.gov/media/blog/2022/01/25/so-you-want-heatproof-glass-what-do-you-need-know
[5] https://www.cooksillustrated.com/content/are-glass-containers-safe-microwave
- To ensure safe food shopping, storing, and microwaving, consider replacing kitchen tools products and kitchen appliances with microwave-safe alternatives, such as heatproof glass, glass-ceramic, wax and parchment paper, and utensils labeled microwave-safe.
- When it comes to food storage, realsimple guidelines suggest avoiding plastic containers labeled safe for the microwave, as chemicals can potentially migrate into food during cooking or reheating.
- Instead, opt for durable options like Anyday Microwave Cookware, which offers glass containers with microwave-safe stainless steel designed for food storage, reheating, and even cooking, minimizing the need to rely on plastic items that may leach harmful chemicals like bisphenol A (BPA).
- Health experts warn that BPA, a hormone-disrupting chemical, can accumulate in human tissue and lead to potential health risks such as hormonal and metabolic disruptions, and other noncommunicable diseases.
- According to recent research in Endocrinology, even low doses of BPA can alter hormone-sensitive organs, highlighting the potential dangers of this chemical, especially when used in plastic kitchen appliances and tools products for food shopping, storing, and microwaving.
