Your membership has expired

The payment for your account couldn't be processed or you've canceled your account with us.

Re-activate

Save products you love, products you own and much more!

Save products icon

Other Membership Benefits:

Savings icon Exclusive Deals for Members Best time to buy icon Best Time to Buy Products Recall tracker icon Recall & Safety Alerts TV screen optimizer icon TV Screen Optimizer and more

    Q&A: Safest containers for microwaving food?

    Consumer Reports News: March 24, 2010 10:15 AM

    What are the safest containers for microwaving food? —V.C., by e-mail

    Those made from glass and porcelain are generally better choices than those made from plastic. Some plastics, notably those with a #3 or #7 recycling symbol, can contain BPA, a chemical that's been linked to reproductive and other health problems. And BPA can leach from plastic into food, especially at high temperatures. Plastic containers without BPA may be safer, but even they can degrade at high temperatures. That's particularly true for single-use containers such as margarine tubs. If you cover food in the microwave with plastic wrap, leave space so they don't touch, since that can transfer chemicals to your meal.

    And don't put too much stock in the term "microwave safe." That usually just means the product contains no metal, not that it's BPA -free or able to withstand high heat.

     

    Take a look at the results of our tests for BPA in canned foods, and read more on how to reduce your exposure to BPA .


    E-mail Newsletters

    FREE e-mail Newsletters! Choose from cars, safety, health, and more!
    Already signed-up?
    Manage your newsletters here too.

    Health News

    Cars

    Cars Build & Buy Car Buying Service
    Save thousands off MSRP with upfront dealer pricing information and a transparent car buying experience.

    See your savings

    Mobile

    Mobile Get Ratings on the go and compare
    while you shop

    Learn more