What kind of plastic can be heated in the microwave?

Many people prefer to snack on homemade food at work, which is convenient to store and transport in trays.

This is especially true when you have a microwave at your disposal. It is not difficult to use, but household appliances present special requirements for containers for food.

The stores offer a wide range of special dishes. It is made of various materials, has all kinds of shapes and volumes.

Choosing the right container will help maintain uninterrupted operation of the appliance and ensure healthy nutrition.

The most common material for containers steel plastic.

The main positive aspect of using it for warming up is ability to withstand sudden temperature changes: From the refrigerator you can immediately place it in the microwave.

The included lid is also a nice addition. Usually it is equipped with a special valve that needs to be opened slightly during the process.

IMPORTANT! Containers made from this material are intended for heating only, as long-term cooking may release substances that have a negative impact on health.

What kind of plastic is suitable for the microwave?

Material requirements

The main condition is that the dishes for heating food must be heat-resistantto withstand the maximum heating temperature. It is in the range of 130–140°.

Suitable items must have a schematic image of a microwave or the inscription “microwave oven safe” on them, indicating suitability for use in microwaves.

The trade offers items made by different manufacturers. Some of them charge attractive prices. However, the technology that ensures the quality of the product is not always followed. Therefore, when purchasing, it is better to give preference to a proven, well-known brand, even if its products are not the lowest cost.

REFERENCE! The seller must have a quality certificate guaranteeing safety and high quality. Conscientious traders present it to customers upon first request.

Cheap product options are usually made in China from low-quality materials.

To check suitability, you can press your fingernail on the surface, there should be no white scar left.

What types of plastic can be used in the microwave?

There is a large selection of containers made from various types of food polymer materials. Each of them has its own purpose and suitability. To make the right choice, you should be careful: study carefully product and find the necessary information from the manufacturer (letter code).

If on the surface of the container (usually on the bottom) it was possible to find a symbol RR, which means it is made of polypropylene. It has high elasticity and guarantees safety when used in microwave. Polyamide plastic is also acceptable.

IMPORTANT! If the marking is PS-polystyrene, then this cookware is not intended for microwave ovens. Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is also unsuitable, as is polyethylene, which emits an unpleasant odor when heated and can melt.

Please keep in mind that PS containers are only safe for storing cold foods or water.

How to Safely Use Plastic Microwave Utensils

There are simple rules, the strict implementation of which will allow the use of such utensils without harm to the body.

• Heat only at low power, it will take more time, but it's worth it. At high powers, negative chemical (estrogen-like) substances are released and absorbed into the contents.
• Use utensils strictly for their intended purpose (different types of plastic become toxic only in specific conditions).
• Before heating it is recommended remove the cap or open the valve, if available. This is necessary for the free release of emerging steam.
• When placing the container, it is worth considering that the distance to the walls should be at least 2-3 centimeters.
• If there is a grill function, it is advisable not to use plastic containers.
  If possible, it is better to transfer from the container to a neutral container made of heat-resistant and fire-resistant glass.