Microwave Safety aspects – use of plastic containers for cooking/Reheating and the alleged ill-effects like Cancer – A myth or hoax?
A layman study and common sense approach.
In this modern world, use of gadgets like fridge, microwave and such other utility appliances are inevitable. So also is the case with plastic wraps and
containers. Ready to cook foods are usually marketed in such wraps and once-use/re-usable containers. There are containers made for specific use in these gadgets, which find free entry into the kitchen. At this juncture, the widely circulated mail which alleges release of harmful toxins like dioxin that may leach into the cooked food, causing various ailments including cancer! At the first impulse, I had forwarded the mail I received to all my contacts but later I could not rest and resist my curiosity to explore the allegations to reach a logical reasoning, either way.My observations
The claim seems to a brushed-off e-HOAX, having been in circulation since over at least 6 years and established that the allegations are not total truth. While the fact remains that the various chemicals used in the manufacture of these plastic containers and wraps and also that they release toxins at very high heat (700 degrees F), which may leach into the food causing various ill effects, the actual process involves appropriate regulations approved by FDA, which specifies the quantum of the chemicals for various types of plastics making it most safe for microwave and common use for consumable storage and hearing. As such we need not worry on this account and forget the email.
Precautions
However, my common sense tells me that one should, being aware of the facts, use good quality containers and wraps which are labeled as “microwave Safe” or indicated so by certain indicative logos and certifications and avoid using any plastic in fridge/microwave. In case of doubt avoid using the item – better to err on the safe side!
This check may be adopted even on ready to cook packages in such containers and wraps.
More information can be read from the following links.
Link 1: http://www.plasticsinfo.org/s_plasticsinfo/sec_level3_collapsed.asp?CID=656&DID=2593
Link 2: http://www.plasticsmythbuster.org/dioxins.asp
Link 3: http://www.phthalates.org/food-safety-microwaves.asp
Link 4: http://www.americanplasticscouncil.org/benefits/in_your_life/microwave.html
Link 5: http://www.cancer.org/docroot/MED/content/MED_6_1x_Microwaving_Plastic.asp?sitearea=MED
Microwave cooking TIP
Use round or oval shaped containers to ensure even cooking of food. The corners in a rectangular container tend to retain more heat and results into over cooking in the corners. A study indicates this – try!
Important Note - STOP FORWARDING THE RUMOUR EMAIL FURTHER!
