Precautions when using plastic containers in microwave

Experts recommend not using plastic boxes to warm up food in the microwave, even if they have a "safe" label.According to Channel News Asia, Associate Professor Suresh Valiaveettil from the National University of Singapore (NUS), the chemical structure of plastic boxes is not too much different, whether it is disposable or reused.Mostly only in additives and production processes, leading to a difference in thickness and heat resistance.

Specifically, reusable plastic boxes are often thicker, more durable, capable of withstand many different environmental conditions compared to the disposable type.In contrast, the disposable plastic box has less stable structure, less heat resistance, according to Dr. Henry Leung from Nanyang Polytechnic University (Singapore).

Therefore, whether it is a disposable or reuse plastic box, users still need to be cautious when used to store or warm up food in the microwave.

Mr. Valiyaveettil recommends avoiding the use of plastic boxes in the microwave because of the risk of chemical leakage.To be safer, users should transfer hot food into ceramic or glass dishes instead of plastic boxes.

Valiyaveettil said that it is better to never use a plastic box (the whole type used as many times) to store food when heated in the microwave.

In addition, the temperature plays an important role in leaking chemicals from plastic.Therefore, consumers should avoid letting plastic boxes in direct contact with the sun, and do not use plastic boxes to store highly acidic foods like vinegar or lemon juice.

To ensure safety, users should also carefully check the information on the product label, avoiding plastic containing BPA or Phthalate - two substances that can affect health.Many countries have requested to specify this ingredient on plastic packaging.

Another way to identify the composition of the plastic product is to through the resin identification code usually printed at the bottom of the product.According to Dr. Leung, this code is expressed by a number in the triangle, giving consumers more specific information to choose the right product.

The symbols need to know when using plastic containers

Vietnamese consumers often use plastic to store food but do not have the habit of caring about the symbols of plastic products.These symbols are important in protecting the health of users, helping to identify toxic plastic and choose the right product to store food.

Regarding the "reading comprehension" of these symbols, Dr. Leung said codes 1, 2, 4, 5 and 6 will usually not contain BPA, while codes 3 and 7 may contain this substance.

Pete plastic (No. 1): This is a popular plastic in a bottle of water, soft drinks or sauce.However, experts recommend not reusing this plastic because it contains BPA - a substance that can be harmful to health when melting into food, especially in high temperature environments.

HDPE plastic (No. 2): is rated as the safest plastic, HDPE has high thermal strength and does not release toxins into food.Plastic No. 2 is often used in bottles of milk, cooking oil and toys.With a identifying blue color, HDPE is a safe choice for long -term food storage needs.

PVC (No. 3): Plastic No. 3 is a toxic plastic, capable of soluble in food when high temperatures.PVC is often used in food wrap, water tank and cooking oil.Experts recommend not using the number 3 plastic wrap for hot or warm foods in the microwave, due to the risk of serious health effects.

Symbols identify codes of plastic on utensils.In which codes 1, 2, 4, 5 and 6 will usually not contain BPA, while codes 3 and 7 may contain this substance.- Photo: CNA

LDPE plastic (No. 4): LDPE is mainly used for plastic bags, nylon gloves and cake boxes.Although this plastic has little chemical reaction, poor heat resistance, not suitable for use in microwave or high temperature environment.

PP plastic (No. 5): PP plastic is a safe option, high thermal strength and can be reused many times.This plastic is often used as a food container and can withstand temperatures in the microwave, but should only be used in a very short time like 2-3 minutes.This is a plastic recommended by experts due to health safety.

PS plastic (No. 6): Often used to produce foam boxes, disks, and disposable glasses, PS is a light and cheap plastic.However, when high temperatures or acidity, PS plastic can release toxins, so it is not suitable for long -term food storage.

PC plastic (No. 7): This is the most toxic plastic, containing BPA - a chemical that can be infected with food when high temperatures.PC plastic is often used in chemical containers or food boxes.Experts recommend not using plastic No. 7 for food, especially hot food, to avoid the risk of poisoning.

In general, consumers need to understand the symbols on plastic products and choose safe plastic to protect health.The recommendations from experts will help people have the habit of using plastic properly, avoiding potential risks to health.