Microplastics are largely unavoidable in 2025. There are kitchen swaps you can make to reduce the chances of eating, but some still estimate that many of us are eating a credit card's worth of plastic per year.
The microwave is one place where you have near-complete control over plastic involvement, since most food destined for the microwave can be transferred to a glass or ceramic bowl. But how dangerous is using plastic in the microwave, and which types, if any, are safe to be nuked?
"Microwave safe doesn't just mean a container will not melt or warp, but it also means it will not release or leach harmful chemicals into our food when heated," says Li Li, an associate professor at the University of Nevada, Reno School of Public Health, whose specialty is environmental health and exposure science.
I spoke with Li and other materials and health experts about the risks of exposing various kitchen containers and packaging materials to the electromagnetic radiation of a microwave.
Here's what they said.
Best practices for using containers in the microwave
Microwaves can cause food storage containers to leach chemicals into food. An expert explains how to avoid the issue altogether. Yaroslav Litun/Getty
Before we delve into the specific materials and their numerous variables regarding suitability for microwave use, consider the following.
Look for microwave-safe labels only as a starting point
Styrofoam and your microwave are a dangerous combination. GoodLifeStudio/Getty
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