Disposable Plastic Containers have recently flooded the market as they are highly preferred for food storage, food delivery, and meal prep. The health and safety concern of many individuals is whether these containers are microwave-safe. Let us look at the dangers and the right approach in regard to the use of disposable plastic containers for microwave cooking.

Types of Plastics Used in the Disposable Containers

The disposable plastic containers can also be made of other types of plastics, for example:

Polypropylene (PP) – It is heat resistant and is usually labelled as microwave-safe.

Polystyrene (PS) – Mostly used for take away but may leach substances when temperature is high.

Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET) – Most often used for ready to drink packaged beverages; should not be used in microwaves.

Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) – Common for packaging but should never be microwave.

Knowing what type of plastic is important when considering which items can be used in the microwave oven. Always remember to check if the caption ‘microwave safe ‘ has been placed at the bottom of that container.

Microwaveable Plastics that are supposedly safe for use

Using non-microwaveable containers like plastic Tupperware has a number of dangers.

Chemical Leaching: Plastics such as polystyrene can release toxic materials like styrene at high temperatures, which causes numerous diseases.

Container Melting or Warping: Disposable containers will make our lives easier but some do not stand up to the heat and will melt creating spills which could taint the food.

Toxic fumes: Certain types of plastic can questionably expel fumes that could be cancerous if the plastic is heated exceeded what it should.

Things to note while searching for a microwaveable container

While searching for a microwaveable container that is disposable, here are some suggestions to consider:

Look for Signs: Look for the wavy lines symbol which shows its microwave suitable along with ‘microwave safe’ imprinted on the product.

Material Identification: The most secure material to choose is Polypropylene (PP) because it can take the heat without dissolving any chemicals.

No Pressure: When microwave heating, ensure that either the container is vented or the top is only too tight to decrease pressure.

Some Common Recommendations on Using Microwaves with Disposable Containers Made of Plastic

In case there is no other alternative but to use a disposable plastic container, consider these precautions:

Short Heating Periods: Try to warm a food item in the microwave for as little as necessary to avoid excessive temperatures to the plastic material.

Avoid High-Fat Foods: The fatty or oily types of food raise their temperature easily and may lead to inner melting of some plastics.

Use Alternatives: “When in doubt” statement is often to advise people whether or not to take specific actions: do transfer food to jars and dishes made of glass or ceramic that does not contain microwave materials.

Should one microwave disposable plastic containers? Is there any risk involved?

Would it be safe to use disposable plastic containers? If yes, would it be wise to microwave them? The answer to the first question depends on the type of polar material contained in the container as well as whether or not this type has been promoted as being safe to use a microwave. For the second question, the answer is no even if it is safe and viable, it poses a lot of danger. When looking for the appropriate one, look for the symbol preferably and opt for the safer option whenever possible.

By adhering to these guidelines, one can make optimal use of plastic containers without the fear of eating the leftovers’ hazard.