Health

Is microwave food safe in plastic containers – Expert opinion


Microwave is an essential appliance in our kitchen today. It is a convenient aid for reheating and cooking food. There have been numerous articles and studies on the safety of using a microwave oven, both pros and cons discussed in detail. Microwaves use high frequency radio waves. When these hit water or water containing items such as food, it generates heat and helps cook or warm it. WHO, in its statement on microwave safety, has stated that microwave cooking is safe and that the nutritional value of food is not greatly affected.

Although cooking in the microwave is safe, the material of the cookware is important. We use plastic in the kitchen more and more for convenience, but the truth is that it is bad for our health and the planet.

Why isn’t plastic safe, especially for baking food in the microwave?

Plastic contains two chemicals – Phthalates and Bisphenol A (BPA), which help keep the container’s shape. These substances are considered “endocrine disruptors”. Scientific evidence indicates that these two compounds affect the action of hormones such as estrogen and testosterone. Both are reproductive hormones and affect reproductive health and also have an impact on children’s growth and development, as stated by the American Pediatric Environmental Health Specialty Unit.
WHO has also stated that when we microwave it in plastic containers, the leakage of these chemicals into food is increasing.

(Read more: Is it safe to heat food in the microwave? Experts reveal)

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Plastic is often used to cook and reheat food in the microwave

What kind of plastic is safe to use?

The general recommended rule of thumb for using microwave-safe plastics is to avoid plastics that contain phthalates, styrene or bisphenol. Try and look for containers that may be labeled “bio-based” or “green,” the US Environmental Working Group, which suggests that even for plastic storage, look for a BPA-free label. Harvard Health advises against using the plastic containers we buy with our products. When we use containers with cream or butter, etc., we should throw it away. We Indians use these to store food, which can also be dangerous, especially if they are scratched or cracked. In this situation, the chemicals also seep into the food. Using these for reheating can be very unhealthy. Takeout trays should also be kept away from the microwave.

(Read more: 3 easy microwave snacks you can try at home)

Eat safe, safe heat.

1. Use glass and porcelain bowls and plates to heat/cook food in the microwave.
2. Use porcelain/glass lids instead of plastic to cover food as plastic lids will also wash away harmful chemicals when condensate.
3. If you must use plastic, choose products that are phthalate-free and BPA-free.
4. Transferring hot food to plastic containers is also not good for health.
5. If you use plastic containers to freeze food, transfer the same to a porcelain or glass container before defrosting in the microwave.

Plastic is here to stay, it is essential to educate ourselves on how to buy the least toxic and make an effort to use non-plastic cookware to make our food. Some plastics are definitely safer than others, so choose those and limit your use of single-use plastics.



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