Ethan Clarke
There is growing evidence that heating food in plastic containers is a health hazard. Many plastic containers contain chemicals such as bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates, which can leach into food when heated, especially when the food is fatty or acidic. These chemicals have been linked to various health issues, including cancer, diabetes, and heart disease. It is recommended to avoid heating food in plastic containers, especially in the microwave, and to opt for glass or ceramic containers instead. Some types of plastic to avoid heating include polypropylene, polystyrene, and polyethylene, which have low heat resistance. It is also important to avoid plastics with recycling codes 3, 6, and 7, which indicate the presence of harmful chemicals. Additionally, plastics such as PTFE and PEEK are known for their heat resistance and are used in various industrial applications. Damaged or stained plastics should also be avoided as they may pose additional risks.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Plastics to avoid heating | Polypropylene, Polycarbonate, Polyethylene, Polystyrene, Polybutylene Terephthalate, Acrylonitrile Butadiene Styrene |
| Plastics that are safe to heat | Numbers 1, 2, and 4 are generally considered safe; some experts include number 5 as well |
| Recommended alternatives | Glass, ceramic, stainless steel, parchment paper, waxed paper |
| Risks of heating plastics | Chemicals like BPA, phthalates, DEHA, and plasticizers can leach into food, especially when heated; possible links to cancer, diabetes, heart disease, obesity, endocrine disruption, and reproductive toxicity |
| Safe handling practices | Avoid heating fatty/oily foods in plastic; use microwave-safe containers and follow instructions; avoid damaged/stained plastics; cool food before storing in plastic |
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What You'll Learn
Health risks of heating plastics
Plastic is everywhere—in bowls, wraps, bottles, and bags used to store foods and beverages. However, heating plastics, especially in the microwave, may cause harmful chemicals to leach into your food.
According to a study published by the Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry, plastic containers are made with a chemical called bisphenol A (BPA), which has been linked to cancer, diabetes, heart disease, obesity, and other illnesses. BPA is also found in the plastic-like coating that lines food and beverage cans. When these containers and cans end up in landfills, BPA can leach into rivers and streams, possibly re-entering our homes and bodies through tap water.
Other chemicals found in plastic containers, such as phthalates and PFAS, can also be harmful. These chemicals can mimic human hormones, controlling processes like reproduction, growth, and metabolism. Exposure to these substances has been linked to an increased risk of infertility, poor fetal development, and cancer.
To reduce your exposure to these harmful chemicals, it is recommended to use glass, ceramic, or stainless steel containers instead of plastic. Avoid heating or storing food in plastic containers, especially in the microwave. Always follow the instructions on the label when using containers marked as microwave-safe, and avoid plastics that are visibly damaged, stained, or have a bad smell.
Additionally, it is important to cool food or liquids before putting them in a plastic container and to avoid putting plastic items in the dishwasher, as the heat and detergent can break down the plastic, causing chemicals to leach out.
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Plastic containers with BPA
Bisphenol A, commonly known as BPA, is a chemical compound found in plastics that can potentially migrate into food. It is often used in the plastic-like coating that lines food and beverage cans, helping to extend the shelf life of the product. However, when these containers are discarded, BPA can leach into rivers and streams, potentially re-entering our homes and bodies through tap water. It has also been found in household dust, especially as plastic products break down.
BPA exposure can occur through various sources, but our highest exposure comes from our daily diet, according to the National Toxicology Program. Molecules of BPA can migrate from containers into food, especially when the containers are heated and the foods are acidic (e.g. tomatoes) or fatty (e.g. gravy). Heating food in plastic containers, therefore, may not be perfectly safe.
To reduce the risk of BPA exposure, it is recommended to cool food or liquids before putting them in a plastic container. University of Cincinnati researchers found that baby bottles leached BPA into boiling water up to 55 times faster than into room-temperature water. It is also advised to avoid putting plastic items in the dishwasher, as the detergent and heat can break down the plastic, causing BPA to leach out.
When using plastic containers, it is essential to follow the instructions on the label. Containers that are visibly damaged, stained, or have a bad smell should be avoided. Always use containers labelled as microwave-safe, and never heat or store food in plastic containers not intended for food, as single-use containers can warp or melt, allowing more substances to leach into the food.
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Plastic containers with phthalates
Phthalates are not used in plastic food containers, food wraps, or beverage bottles sold in the United States. Plastic food wraps in the US are made of polyvinyl chloride or PVC, but they contain a different plasticizer called di(2-ethylhexyl) adipate or DEHA.
However, phthalates have been found in some plastic wraps and cheeses, and there is growing concern about their presence in our food. Phthalates are endocrine disruptors, which means they can interfere with the production and regulation of estrogen and other hormones. This can lead to an increased risk of several health problems, including diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular disease, certain cancers, birth defects, premature birth, neurodevelopmental disorders, and infertility.
While there are few regulations restricting the use of phthalates in food production, some steps can be taken to reduce exposure. It is recommended to avoid allowing plastic wrap to come into contact with food, especially when heating or if the food has a high-fat content. It is also advised to use glass, ceramic, or plastic containers and wraps labelled as microwave-safe and to always follow the instructions on the label.
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Plastic containers with DEHA
While plastic containers and wraps are convenient for storing food, the potential health risks associated with DEHA exposure have raised concerns. A 1998 study by Consumers Union found DEHA levels in plastic-wrapped foods exceeded the recommended levels set by European advisory committees and regulatory agencies. Subsequent studies have detected DEHA in various foods sold in plastic wrap, including cheese, beef, chicken, and pork.
To minimise the risk of DEHA exposure, it is recommended to avoid heating foods wrapped in plastic or stored in plastic containers with DEHA. This is because heating can cause the plastic to break down, allowing chemicals like DEHA to leach into the food. High-fat foods, such as pastries, cheese, meat, and oily dishes, may draw out DEHA more effectively, increasing the potential health risks associated with their consumption.
It is worth noting that some companies have switched to using low-density polyethylene (LDPE) instead of PVC in their plastic wraps and containers. LDPE is considered safer for human health as it does not contain DEHA or chlorine. However, preliminary studies suggest that LDPE may also have potential health risks, as it has been found to leach other chemicals into food.
To ensure food safety, it is recommended to follow guidelines provided by health organisations and experts. Using glass, ceramic, or plastic containers labelled as microwave-safe is generally considered safer for heating food. It is also advisable to avoid visibly damaged, stained, or odorous plastics and to cool food before placing it in plastic containers.
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Alternatives to plastic containers
It is generally advised to avoid heating plastics in a microwave, especially those that are visibly damaged, stained, or have a bad smell. This is because certain plastics contain chemicals such as phthalates and BPA, which can migrate into food when heated, especially with fatty or acidic foods.
Glass Containers
Glass containers are a simple and effective way to reduce plastic usage. They are recyclable, don't release chemicals into food when heated, and are transparent, allowing you to see what's inside. They are also more durable than plastic and have a longer shelf life. You can find glass containers in various sizes, perfect for storing anything from herbs and sauces to a whole lasagna.
Silicone Bags and Containers
Silicone bags are a great alternative to plastic zipper bags. They are reusable, dishwasher-safe, and leak-proof. However, they should be food-grade silicone and not sprayed with any chemicals. Silicone lids for mason jars are also available and are great for food storage.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel bottles and containers are a durable and eco-friendly alternative to plastic. They are leak-proof and can be safely used to store and transport food and beverages.
Cloth Snack Bags
Cloth bags, preferably made from organic cotton, are a reusable and environmentally friendly option for storing sandwiches, snacks, and lunches. They are a great alternative to disposable plastic bags and can be easily washed and reused.
Bamboo Utensils
Bamboo utensils are a sustainable alternative to plastic silverware when eating on the go. They are lightweight and dishwasher-safe, although hand-washing will extend their lifespan.
Other alternatives to plastic containers include beeswax wraps, ceramic containers, and plastic-free bags and boxes.
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Frequently asked questions
Heating some plastics can cause chemicals to leach into food or drinks. These chemicals, such as bisphenol A (BPA) and phthalates, have been linked to various health issues including cancer, diabetes, and heart disease.
Avoid heating plastics with recycling codes 3 (phthalates), 6 (styrene), and 7 (bisphenols). Also, do not heat single-use plastics like polypropylene (PP) and polystyrene, which are commonly used for plastic cutlery, straws, and takeaway containers.
Heating food in containers made of polystyrene, for example, can cause the plastic to break down and leach into the food or drink. This can lead to the ingestion of harmful chemicals.
Yes, it's important to avoid visibly damaged, stained, or odorous plastics as they may be more likely to leach chemicals. Additionally, fatty or oily foods heated in plastic can increase the transfer of chemicals.
It is recommended to use glass, ceramic, or stainless steel containers for heating food. These materials do not pose the same health risks as plastics and are safer alternatives for both microwave and oven use.
