Microwave in Glass, Never in Plastic

Skip plastics, and go for heat-resistant glass or ceramics instead.

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Photo: Dave White / istock

By Dan Shapley

Because chemicals can leach out of some plastics and into your food, it's a good idea to avoid heating them up in the microwave. Store food in glass, ceramic or stainless steel as much as possible, and always choose glass or ceramic for heating in the microwave.

While the health risks of exposure to chemicals like bisphenol-A and phthalates aren't clearly known, and both government and industry generally supports their safety, a growing body of independent research suggests worrying health risks from their similarity to human hormones. Those studies are largely based on studies of animals exposed to chemicals in laboratory settings, so the health risks to humans remains hazy.

Still, several states are concerned enough to have enacted bans on bisphenol-A in plastic products used by babies and toddlers, the federal government has banned the use of several phthalates in toys, and both the Food and Drug Administration and the Environmental Protection Agency are reviewing data about bisphenol-A to determine if stronger regulations are warranted.

In the meantime, choose glass as a precaution.

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