Microwaves are a staple of modern kitchens, making food heating quick and convenient.
Be that as it may, using the wrong type of container can be dangerous in various ways. It can cause fire or leach harmful chemicals into your food.
Microwave-safe containers do help reheat food of various types. Some of them we’ve tested out here include chicken, toaster strudels, and baby food, just to mention a few.
In this article, we will cover what microwave-safe containers are and how to choose the best ones for your needs.
What Are Microwave-Safe Containers?
Microwave-safe containers are made of materials that do not melt, warp, or release harmful chemicals when exposed to microwave radiation.
These containers are specifically designed for use in the microwave and are labeled as such. A microwave-safe container should be able to withstand the high heat of the microwave without degrading.
Characteristics of Microwave-Safe Containers
One of the most important characteristics of microwave-safe containers is that they are non-reactive to the microwaves themselves.
Microwaves heat food by exciting the water molecules within it, causing them to vibrate and generate heat. Microwave-safe is designed to absorb the microwave energy without reacting chemically to it. That’s to say they won’t release any harmful substances into your food.
Another characteristic of these containers is that they are made from non-conductor materials. They won’t won’t get too hot to handle or cause burns or fires in the microwave.
The materials used in microwave-safe containers include glass, ceramic, plastic, and silicone, each with their unique properties that make them suitable for microwave use.
Microwave-safe containers also need to be designed in a way that allows steam to escape, as the buildup of steam can cause pressure to build up within the container, leading to explosions.
Many microwave-safe containers have vented lids or specially designed openings that allow steam to escape safely.
Materials for Microwave-Safe Containers
When it comes to microwave-safe containers, there are several materials to choose from. Here are some of the most common:
- Glass
Glass is the most common material known for microwave-safe containers. It is durable and does not absorb odors or flavors from your food. Glass containers also allow you to view contents as they heat, making it easy to avoid overcooking.
- Ceramic
Ceramic is another excellent option for microwave-safe containers. It’s heat-resistant, meaning it can withstand high temperatures without cracking or warping.
Ceramic containers come in a variety of shapes and sizes, making them ideal for a wide range of foods.
- Plastic
Containers like BPA-free plastics are convenient and lightweight, making them perfect for taking meals on the go. However, not all plastic containers are safe for use in the microwave.
Look for plastic containers that are labeled as “microwave-safe” or have a microwave-safe symbol on them. Avoid using plastic containers that are not specifically designed for the microwave, as they may release harmful chemicals when heated.
- Silicone
Another newer material for microwave-safe containers is silicone. It’s strong enough to handle high temperatures without melting or warping. Silicone containers are easy to store as well.
- Paper
Paper containers are safe for use in the microwave, but they are not reusable. If you choose to use paper containers, make sure they are labeled as “microwave-safe”. Or they don’t have any metal components, such as staples or paperclips.
Materials that are not Microwave-Safe
While several materials are safe to use in the microwave, some shouldn’t be used due to potential damage to the microwave.
It’s important to be aware of these materials as well as avoid using them in the microwave.
Here are some materials that are not microwave-safe:
- Aluminum foil
Aluminum foil can cause arcing and sparking in the microwave, which damages the appliance completely by mostly starting a fire.
- Metal utensils
Similar to aluminum foil, metal utensils can cause sparking and damage to the microwave.
- Styrofoam
Styrofoam can melt or warp in the microwave, which can release harmful chemicals into your food.
- Non-microwave safe plastics
Not all plastics are suitable for use in the microwave, as some can melt, releasing harmful elements into your food. Look for containers that are specifically labeled as microwave-safe.
- Ceramic or glass with metallic accents
These materials can also cause sparking in the microwave.
Always check the manufacturer’s instructions before using any container in the microwave. By following proper safety guidelines, you can ensure safe microwave cooking.
What Makes a Container Microwave-Safe?
Microwave-safe containers are designed to withstand the high heat of the microwave without degrading or releasing harmful chemicals.
To ensure that a container is microwave-safe, look for a label that specifically states that it is safe for use in the microwave.
You can check out a symbol that looks like a microwave with waves emanating from it. This symbol indicates that the container is microwavable.
Alongside that, you can perform a simple test to determine if a container is microwave-safe. Place the container, with a small amount of water in it, in the microwave and heat it for one minute.
If the container is cool to the touch and the water is hot, then it is safe to use in the microwave. If the results are negative, then it is not microwave-safe.
Tips for Using Microwave-Safe Containers
Using microwave-safe containers is important for ensuring the safety and efficiency of your microwave use. Here are some tips for using microwave-safe containers:
- Always check the label or symbol to ensure that a container is microwave-safe before using it in the microwave.
- Avoid using containers that are not specifically designed for the microwave, such as aluminum foil or metal containers.
- Use a lid or cover on your container to prevent splatters and keep your food moist. A loose-fitting lid can also allow steam to escape, preventing the buildup of pressure that’s likely to cause the container to explode.
- Do not overfill your container, as this can cause it to spill or overflow during heating. Leave some space at the top of the container to allow for expansion.
- Avoid using containers that are cracked or damaged, as they’re weak when exposed to the heat of the microwave.
- Always use oven mitts or a towel when removing hot containers from the microwave. The container and its contents may be hot, even if the outside of the container feels cool to the touch.
- Allow your food to sit for a few minutes after heating to allow the heat to distribute evenly throughout the container. This can also help prevent burns from hot spots.
- Use caution when heating liquids in the microwave, as they can erupt unexpectedly. To prevent this, add a stir stick or a microwave-safe object to the liquid, which can help prevent overheating.
Benefits of Using Microwave-Safe Containers
There are several benefits to using microwave-safe containers for cooking and reheating food. Here are some of the key advantages:
- Safety. Microwave-safe containers are designed to be safe for use in the microwave, which helps to reduce the risk of accidents or injuries from using the wrong type of container.
- Convenience: Microwave-safe containers are quick and easy to use, allowing you to heat food in a matter of minutes. They are also easy to clean and often dishwasher-safe.
- Versatility: Microwave-safe containers come in a variety of shapes and sizes, making them versatile for a range of different types of food and cooking methods.
- Cost-effectiveness: Using microwave-safe containers can help reduce food waste by allowing you to quickly reheat leftovers or cook small portions of food without needing to use a large oven or stovetop.
- Environmentally friendly: Using these containers helps reduce the use of disposable containers, which are harmful to the environment.
Conclusion
In conclusion, microwave-safe containers are designed to be safe and effective for use in the microwave oven.
They are made from materials that can withstand the high temperatures and pressures of microwave cooking and have specific characteristics that make them suitable for this purpose.
It’s important to be aware of the materials that are not microwave-safe, such as aluminum foil, metal utensils, Styrofoam, and non-microwave-safe plastics, to prevent accidents in the microwave.
Be sure to follow the manufacturer’s guidelines for using microwave-safe containers, especially for high temperatures.
Overall, using microwave-safe containers offers several benefits, including safety, convenience, versatility, cost-effectiveness, and environmental friendliness.