26, 2024
Can you put plastic foam containers in the microwave?
Let’s explore whether it’s safe to heat up takeout or restaurant leftovers.
When it comes to convenience,using a microwaveto reheat food is second to none.
But as you already know, not everything is safe to put in the microwave.
Your restaurant leftovers and to-go orders are often packed in plastic foam containers.
Not all foam containers are the same, nor are they all microwave-safe.
(Learn you’re free to put aluminum foil in the microwave.)
What Is Styrofoam?
Turns out, neither are made with real Styrofoam.
Its made from extruded polystyrene foam.
This material is about 95% air, which makes it super lightweight.
Can You Microwave Styrofoam?
However, not all foam containers should be microwaved.
That symbol means the FDA has determined the container is safe to heat in the microwave.
If the container doesnothave that symbol, its not safe to use in the microwave.
(Learn whenyou can microwave cardboard.)
What happens if you microwave plastic foam containers?
There is a chance that, when heated, some styrene can migrate into the food within the container.
This is particularly true for fatty items such as meats and cheeses.
This is potentially concerning asstyrene has been identified as a cancer-causing agent.
Even if you might reheat microwave-safe foam containers,shouldyou?
Learn how tomicrowave leftoversthe right way.
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