In the search for practicality in the modern kitchen, many people turn to microwave as a quick solution for heating food.
However, the use of plastic containers in this appliance raises important food safety and health concerns.
This is because recent research has shown new information about the potential risks involved in this simple everyday habit for many people.
Can you heat food in a plastic container in the microwave?
Is plastic in the microwave bad for your health? Find out here! – Image: Reproduction
The study conducted by the University of Nebraska-Lincoln in the US and published in the journal of the American Chemical Society (ACS) focused specifically on baby food containers made from polypropylene and polyethylene.
Despite being materials approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for this use, the results showed that significant amounts of nanoplastics and microplastics can be released when these containers are heated in the microwave.
Results are shocking!
Surprisingly, tests indicated the release of more than two billion nanoplastics and four million microplastics per square centimeter of container exposed to microwave heat.
These data raise an alert about materials considered safe and put into perspective the need for their reevaluation by the scientific community and regulatory bodies.
What are the health implications of this?
Although the full effects of microplastics in human health are still the subject of study, the World Health Organization (WHO) has already recommended reducing exposure to these particles.
Concerns include potential toxic effects such as oxidative stress, metabolic changes, and neurotoxicity.
Long-term, high-dose exposure can be particularly dangerous for vulnerable groups, such as babies and young children, who often consume food heated in plastic containers.
Recommendations for safe microwave use
Given these findings, it is advisable to opt for containers designated as microwave safe, preferably made of glass or ceramic, which do not present the risks associated with plastic substances.
Furthermore, the study reinforces the importance of considering safer alternatives in food preservation, such as the use of refrigeration or storage at room temperature to minimize the risks of plastic contamination.
3 practical tips for heating food in the microwave
- Check the symbols: Always check the bottom of plastic containers for symbols indicating whether they are suitable for use in the microwave.
- Avoid disposable containers: Disposable plastic containers, such as those for margarine or yogurt, are not made to withstand microwave heat and can release harmful substances.
- Prefer safe alternatives: Choose glass or ceramic containers, which are safer and more durable for microwave use.
Finally, while the microwave offers convenience, it is essential to adopt safe practices to ensure that this convenience does not come with risks to our health.
Science continues to reveal the challenges associated with the use of plastics, urging us to reconsider and adapt our methods of preparing and consuming food to ensure the well-being of all.
