Microwaving food in plastic: Dangerous or not?

When food is wrapped in plastic or placed in a plastic container and microwaved, substances used in manufacturing the plastic (plasticizers) may leak into the food

 In particular, fatty foods such as meats and cheeses cause a chemical called diethylhexyl adipate to leach out of the plastic.


Here are some things to keep in mind when using the microwave:

• Most takeout containers, water bottles, and plastic tubs or jars made to hold margarine, yogurt, whipped topping, and foods such as cream cheese, mayonnaise, and mustard are not microwave-safe.
•  
• Microwavable takeout dinner trays are formulated for one-time use only and will say so on the package.
•  
• Don’t microwave plastic storage bags or plastic bags from the grocery store.
•  
• Before microwaving food, be sure to vent the container: Leave the lid ajar, or lift the edge of the cover.
•  
• Don’t allow plastic wrap to touch food during microwaving because it may melt. Wax paper, kitchen parchment paper, or white paper towels are alternatives.
•  
• If you’re concerned about plastic wraps or containers in the microwave, transfer food to glass or ceramic containers labeled for microwave oven use