In recent years, there has been growing concern about dangerous substances that, from containers, can transfer into food while cooking in the microwave. Most concerns relate to plastic containers, especially those with bisphenol-A (BPA) or phthalates. However, the microwave is a convenient appliance for heating or defrosting food. Thanks to correct information about the different products available to contain food in the microwave, you can choose the one that best suits your needs and at the same time protect your health.
Steps
Part 1 of 2: Finding Safe Dishes
Step 1. Be aware of potential health hazards
Some microwave safe containers, especially plastic ones, can be harmful. The others, those made of glass or ceramic, are safer. If you educate yourself correctly about the potential dangers of certain food containers, you can make safer and more informed choices. Some potential risks to human health are:
- "Disruption of the endocrine system" caused by elements that act similarly to human hormones. These can lead to changes in the chemical messengers that regulate the metabolism and reproductive organs;
- Miscarriage and birth defects;
- Reduced sperm count;
- Precocious puberty;
- Cancer;
- Obesity and diabetes;
- Neurobehavioral anomalies.
Step 2. Know the substances to avoid
The term "plastic" indicates a wide range of different materials that can make up the containers to be used in the microwave. In particular, containers with BPA, phthalates, polycarbonate and polyvinyl chloride are particularly dangerous. Although the Ministry of Health carefully regulates the production of plastic containers and materials for food use, you must be adequately informed, in order to avoid contact with potentially dangerous chemicals. The containers listed here could be harmful if used to heat food in the microwave:
- Plastic dishes;
- Some polystyrene containers;
- Plastic bags and shopping bags;
- Transparent film;
- Take-away food containers, water bottles, tubes and jars that contain foods, such as margarine, yogurt, mayonnaise or mustard.
Step 3. Look for security marks
Some containers are manufactured to be suitable for microwave cooking; in this case, they have specific labels on the package and on the containers themselves. You also need to make sure that these containers indicate other symbols that describe their ability to withstand the action of the microwave oven and that they are non-toxic. Check the packaging and product for the following markings or indications:
- A label that says "microwave safe";
- The symbol of a plate with wavy lines above it;
- The symbol with waving lines;
- A triangle, or Möbius strip, with a number inside it. The number indicates the type of plastic material used to make the product and which you may want to avoid.
Step 4. Check the pantry
Maybe you already have containers to heat food in the microwave. Before buying new ones, inspect the kitchen to see which ones you have and which you can use.
- Read the labels on the containers looking for the word "safe for the microwave".
- Know that when it comes to transparent film, the debate is still very heated. If you decide to use it in the microwave, make sure the packaging says you can.
- Check old, scratched, broken and heavily used containers, as they may release larger quantities of dangerous substances. Consider throwing them out and buying new products.
- Check that the glass or ceramic dishes are labeled "microwave safe" and that they do not contain other materials, such as gold edges or other metals.
- Remember that, contrary to popular belief, it is possible to put some polystyrene or polystyrene containers in the microwave. You just have to make sure they have the safety symbol or mark on them.
Step 5. Purchase new vessels
If you need containers for warming food in the microwave and want to buy new ones, you can easily find safe ones at most home improvement stores. Read the label on the package carefully and look for the mark on the container that certifies that it can be used in the microwave.
- Remember that ceramic and glass elements remain the best solution. Either way, make sure the package says "microwave safe". Know that these are more expensive than plastic products, but they last longer.
- Purchase plastic containers and cling film that are labeled with the security mark.
- Do several online searches on sites like Altroconsumo, to find the best products in this regard.
Step 6. Run a test
There is a technique that allows you to understand if the container you are about to use is safe, in case you have any doubts. Thanks to this test, you can decide to use the container or opt for another solution.
- Empty the container you want to test and place it in the microwave.
- Insert a second container with 250ml of tap water.
- Run the appliance at full power for one minute. If the empty container is cold, it is microwave safe. If it is hot, you should only use it for reheating food; if it is hot, you must never use it in the microwave.
Part 2 of 2: Adopt Safe Practices When Using the Microwave
Step 1. Read the instructions of the appliance
The microwave oven is a household appliance that makes life easier, but it is not without risks, so it is essential to read the instruction manual to avoid harming yourself or others.
- If in doubt, call the manufacturer.
- If you've lost the manual, search online to find a copy.
- Check carefully for specific instructions regarding the type of containers and wrappers you can use. For example, some models allow the use of special aluminum foil, while others expressly prohibit it.
- Check for instructions or advice about particular types of food. For example, most meats should not be cooked at maximum power, but at a medium level and for a longer time.
Step 2. Follow the instructions for precooked foods
If you want to cook this kind of food in the microwave oven, read the instructions on the package. In most cases, the container can only be heated once and requires special power settings.
- If necessary, make ventilation holes on the package by piercing it with a fork or lifting a corner of the transparent film.
- Be sure to strictly adhere to the temperature guidelines. For example, some foods must be cooked at 50% power, otherwise they could be spoiled and even damage the appliance.
Step 3. Arrange the food to reheat
If you have decided to use a covered plate to reheat your food, its arrangement may interfere with the process. Try to form a single homogeneous layer, so that cooking is even and dangerous bacteria are killed.
Step 4. Cover food securely
In many cases, you can cover the foods you have prepared to heat them in the microwave. Be sure to use suitable lids or covers and to leave vents for steam to prevent dangerous chemicals from moving into the food.
- Choose the cling film specifically for microwave use. Never let it come into contact with food.
- Consider using wax or parchment paper, absorbent paper, or dishes. Alternatively, cover the food using domed containers that are safe for this type of cooking.
- Leave the lid ajar or cut openings in the film to allow the steam to escape.
- Do not use brown paper bags, newspapers and most aluminum foil as covers.
Step 5. Check the food as it cooks
Halfway through the process, inspect the dish to make sure it cooks properly. Consider twisting or mixing it to redistribute the internal heat.
- Remember that cold areas of food may contain dangerous bacteria.
- Use a thermometer to check the core temperature of dishes, especially meat-based ones.
Warnings
- Be careful when removing the containers from the microwave. Lift the lid or cover carefully to avoid burning yourself. Check the temperature of the container before grasping it with your hands.
- Never use the microwave to seal preserves or sterilize jars.
