Plastic in a microwave – is it safe? Learn about the possible dangers of heating plastic containers in microwave ovens here.
What can you read in this article?
- How to know if plastic is microwave-safe
- Is it safe to stand in front of a microwave
- List of BPA products to avoid while you’re pregnant
A new study found exposure of the placenta to a specific component of plastic containers may have an effect on fetal brain development. The study conducted by scientists at the University of Missouri says that direct transmission of bisphenol A (BPA) from a pregnant woman to her developing baby through the placenta could lead to negative effects on fetal brain development.
Many common household objects contain BPA, including plastic water bottles and food containers. The act of microwaving food in polycarbonate plastic food containers can result in exposure to harmful chemicals.
According to Cheryl Rosenfeld, professor of biomedical sciences in the College of Veterinary Medicine through Science Daily,
“The placenta is only a temporary organ that aids in the exchange of nutrients and waste between mother and child during pregnancy, but how the placenta responds to toxicants like BPA during pregnancy can lead to long-term health consequences.”
Numerous research studies have looked at the potential health repercussions, which include neurobehavioural problems, diabetes, obesity, and a variety of reproductive abnormalities.
With this said, how do you know if your plastic containers are safe to microwave? And is it even safe for pregnant women to be near a microwave oven?
How to know if plastic is microwave-safe
Photo by Ella Olsson from Pexels
The easiest way to know if a plastic container is microwave-safe is to look for a symbol at the bottom of the container. A microwave that has some wavy lines on it means the container is microwave safe.
Other products that are not safe to microwave
- Polyethylene terephthalate or APET(E)
APET(E) made products are not safe to use in the microwave. Deli containers, supermarket containers, water bottles, and most cold food and display packaging containers fall under this category. They are recyclable but are not suitable for reheating.
- Crystallized polyethylene terephthalate or CPET, #1
These containers are typically used for oven-ready products. It has been crystallized to endure significantly greater temperatures.
Is it safe to microwave plastic?
The biggest danger with microwaving plastic is that it might allow additives to seep into your foods and beverages, some of which are toxic.
Bisphenol A (BPA) increases the flexibility and durability of plastic. These chemicals cause hormone disruption and have been related to obesity, diabetes, and reproductive harm.
According to Dr. Neelima Chu, board-certified endocrinologist and internal medicine doctor with Sharp Rees-Stealy in her interview with Sharp Health News,
“It’s important to avoid substances that interfere with hormones. These substances can lead to infertility; thyroid disease; early puberty; leukemia; breast, uterine and prostate cancers; neurobehavioral issues; obesity; and metabolic dysfunction.”
Moreover, a recent study showed that phthalates are responsible for nearly 100,000 premature deaths each year.
Photo by Mahrous Houses on Unsplash
BPA is predominantly found in polycarbonate plastics. These have been used in food storage containers, and baby bottles. Moreover, it can seep into meals and beverages especially when they are microwaved.
The Food and Drug Administration has disallowed the use of BPA-based materials in the packaging of infant formula and baby bottles. Manufacturers have also started producing storage with BPA-free plastics like Polypropylene.
Studies suggest that microwaved BPA plastics can release additional hormone-disrupting chemicals like phthalates or BPA substitutes like bisphenol S and F (BPS and BPF) into foods.
Is it safe to stand in front of a microwave?
In an article in Science Friday, Timothy Jorgensen, an associate professor of radiation medicine at Georgetown University said that microwave ovens are designed to keep radiation from entering the room.
A protective mesh screen is installed against the glass. First, these openings let you see your food. Most importantly, it keeps the lengthy microwaves inside the oven.
Do not press your nose against its door. It’s safer to stand on the opposite side of the kitchen. Here, your exposure is minimal to none.
Expert recommendations on microwaving breastmilk
When it comes to the topic of microwaving breastmilk, it is important to consider the recommendations provided by experts in the field. Many professionals advise against microwaving breastmilk due to potential risks.
The high heat produced by microwaves can create hot spots in the milk, which can scald the baby’s mouth and throat. Additionally, microwaving may also destroy some of the beneficial nutrients and antibodies present in breast milk.
Instead, experts recommend using alternative methods to warm breastmilk, such as placing the bottle in a bowl of warm water or using a bottle warmer specifically designed for breastmilk.
These methods ensure a more even and gentle heating process, reducing the risk of overheating and nutrient loss. It is always best to consult with a healthcare provider or a lactation consultant for personalized guidance on safely warming breast milk for your baby.
Potential risks and precautions involved
One potential risk is the uneven heating that can occur in microwave ovens, leading to hot spots in the milk. These hot spots can pose a scalding hazard to the baby’s mouth and throat.
Additionally, microwaving breastmilk may result in the loss of valuable nutrients and antibodies that are beneficial for the baby’s health. To mitigate these risks, it is recommended to use alternative methods for warming breastmilk, such as placing the bottle in a bowl of warm water or using a bottle warmer designed specifically for breastmilk.
These methods provide a more controlled and even warming process, reducing the risk of overheating and nutrient loss. It is always advisable to seek guidance from healthcare professionals or lactation consultants for personalised advice on the safe handling and warming of breast milk for your baby.
READ MORE:
Is It Safe To Heat Baby’s Food In A Microwave? Here’s What You Need To Know
No Plastic, No Problem! Here’s How Your Family Can Start A Zero-Waste Lifestyle At Home
BPA products to avoid if you’re pregnant
There is simply not enough information available to determine the entire extent of BPA’s effects on your unborn child. Some of the possible complications are the following:
- Asthma
- Low birth weight
- Birth defects
- Miscarriage
So to be on the safe side, it’s always best to double-check the plastic containers you are using if they are indeed microwave-safe.
Products that may contain BPA
A lot of common household products and items are made of BPA plastic. So be more discerning of these products before consuming or using them:
- Plastic containers
- Canned goods
- Toiletries
- CDs/DVDs
- Eyeglass lenses
- Sports equipment
- Household gadgets
- Feminine hygiene products
Make sure that the next time you purchase any of these products, they are BPA-free. Most importantly, they are safe for pregnant women.
How do you limit your exposure to BPA products?
You can also limit your exposure to BPA with these tips:
- Reduce the number of canned goods you consume
- Drink from glass bottles
- Use glass or stainless steel containers
- Look for products that are BPA-free
- Plastics should not be microwaved
- Make sure that the toys you buy are BPA-free too
- Go for powdered infant formula versus liquid ones
If you’re unsure if the product contains harmful chemicals that may harm you or your baby, just err on the side of caution. Using plastic containers in a microwave oven is not worth doing if it can put your pregnancy at risk.
If you have other concerns about what is safe and not safe for pregnant women, don’t hesitate to consult your OB-gynaecologist.
Republished with permission from theAsianparent Philippines.