Avoid Risky Plastic in Microwave
Safe Practices for Using Plastic Containers and Wraps in a Microwave
Plastics are receiving negative publicity for possible health hazards. Since they are an integral part of most kitchens it is good to review what can be microwaved.
Plastics are versatile and convenient for today’s busy lifestyle. If a plastic container is dropped it rarely breaks, and when it does it seldom involves small shards like a glass container might produce. They can be frozen or refrigerated and then tossed in the microwave. Plastic wrap can take the place of a lid on almost any container. It can also prevent splashing when food gets overheated while in the microwave. Plastic storage bags are also convenient for refridgerating and freezing food. But not all plastics should be heated when they contain food.
Safe Plastics
As a general rule, any plastic container that is purchased for food storage is safe. Look on the packaging for a safety label. If it says “Microwave Safe” then it is approved by the FDA for microwave use.
If the original packaging is no longer available, look for the microwave symbol. This symbol would be found on the bottom of the container. It consists of four wavy lines over what appears to be a bowl.
For prepackaged foods, check the packaging first. These will not necessarily state “Microwave Safe” but will include cooking or heating instructions. If in doubt, turn the food out onto a plate or into a bowl first.
Plastic wraps also vary for acceptable microwave use. As with storage containers and prepackaged foods, check the packaging for the words “Microwave Safe.” When using plastic wraps to cover food leave space between the food and the wrap; a good rule to follow is one inch of air space. This is because some foods will melt plastic wrap when heated.
Unsafe Plastics
A common practice for storing leftovers is to use plastic containers from Chinese takeout and heat-and-serve meals. According to the Plastics Division of the American Chemistry Council, trays and containers from pre-packaged meals are approved for one time use and may break down when heated a second time. Chinese takeout containers are also only intended for use once and may leach harmful chemicals into foods when used in the microwave.
Cold foods such as butter spreads and yogurt are sold in plastic containers. These containers were designed for cold storage of food and should not be exposed to heat. This includes not only cooking in a microwave but also placing them in a dishwasher.
Plastic bags are also commonly used for refrigerating or freezing foods. These are seldom microwave safe. Before defrosting, reheating or cooking the food in a microwave, first remove it from the bag and place it on a microwave safe plate.
