Plastic containers are indispensable in any kitchen. If not for storage, they are widely used to heat up leftovers or reheat food before serving them. If you are an advanced cook, you might have even used these to bake certain items in your convection microwave oven. However, you might have noticed that not all plastics are safe for use inside a microwave oven.
In your kitchen, you must have used the kind of plastic that is safe and approved for use in a microwave – others may not be. Microwaves are known to stir up a lot of heat and not all varieties of plastic can withstand that. Ziploc containers are one such category that is microwave safe and these are specially manufactured for this purpose.
Can You Microwave Ziploc Containers?
Absolutely yes! Ziploc tupperware and containers are designed specifically to be used in microwaves. The label on all Ziploc containers reads ‘microwave safe’ as you might have already noticed. This sticker certifies that the containers meet the FDA’s (Food and Drug Administration) safety regulations for heating up food in a microwave oven.
These containers have been tried and tested on how they perform reheating food inside a microwave and repeatedly it has been found and eventually confirmed that these containers do not melt when exposed to high temperatures. These plastics have been thoroughly examined for quality and toxic effects and has been reported that they meet all health and production requirements.
Earlier, studies had been conducted on the safety of plastic usage in the kitchen and it had been discovered that some varieties release an estrogen-like compound that is known to catalyze the formation of carcinogenic cells in the human body. Chemicals like BPA are mostly used in the manufacturing process of certain kinds of plasticware such as milk-container liners, food can coatings, and food storage containers.
Furthermore, people had raised questions about the potential hazards of using plastic containers in microwaves. It was based on the idea that a combination of plastic, grease, and high temperatures can discharge dioxin into the food and, ultimately, into body cells, boosting the likelihood of malignant cells forming.
Thankfully, Ziploc containers are not composed of BPA or Bisphenol A and are free of these dioxins, therefore, are safe to be used to reheat food in a microwave.
Can you heat up a Ziploc container?
It appears that popping Ziploc containers into the microwave oven to quickly warm up a noon meal prep is standard practice. Plastic containers have a longstanding history in the modern kitchen, from leftover scraps to midday meal planning, kid’s lunches, and casserole. Ziploc containers are a cost-effective, robust, and ultralight option for a selection of different food storage purposes.
Polypropylene, the material used in Ziploc tupperware, has a high melting threshold of about 320°F (160°C). As a result, it can endure high temperatures, however, it is not suitable for use in normal ovens, under browning elements, or on the cooktop. Ziploc trademark items can be used with great reliability if the packaging guidelines are observed.
All Ziploc containers fulfill FDA safety criteria for temperatures concerned with defrosting and warming food in microwave ovens, as well as ambient, refrigerated, and frozen temperatures. In short, Ziploc containers are clearly labeled as only safe for defrosting and reheating foods, according to the manufacturer’s requirements.
That being said, you must not cook in a Ziploc container.
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How long can you microwave Ziploc containers?
As you can only reheat food and not cook it inside a Ziploc container, it is important to note that there are a few restrictions and limitations to it as well. As these containers, although microwavable, cannot withstand high temperatures, utmost precaution must be taken to prevent any sort of overheating and so you must pay special attention to food items containing high fat or sugar content. Because fats and sugars can heat up to higher temperatures than water droplets, the plastic containers may overheat and burn.
Furthermore, you should place the Ziploc containers on a heatproof, ‘microwave safe’ tray and be reheated for 1 minute at low to moderate intensity. Additionally, the utensil should be ventilated to prevent steam and vapor from accumulating within, thus building pressure. Observe the container after each 1-minute interval to confirm the plastic has not begun to overheat.
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Are all Ziploc containers microwave safe?
Ziploc containers are microwave safe. They do not cause any chemicals to leach into the food stored within when exposed to moderate heat. These products have undergone comprehensive toxicity and safety testing and are in compliance with all applicable quality and safety laws. Unlike most other plastic containers, such as, food-can coatings, milk-container liners, food containers, and water-supply pipes, these are free from BPA and do not cause long-term harm.
Ziploc containers are safe to be used in most temperatures – be it in a freezer or to warm up the food in a microwave. Although there are far better and safer, recyclable options, there is absolutely no harm in using a Ziploc containers as long as you’re following the instruction manual or guide that comes along with it.
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Final Thoughts
Like all other things, using Ziploc containers judiciously is key. Follow any printed directions on the label when using a Ziploc container in the microwave. Make sure you read the instructions before cooking prepared items in the microwave. Foods, in the majority of cases, have unique heating requirements.
When heating up foods and edibles in Ziploc containers, it’s best to cut it into small, homogeneous pieces. This will allow the food to heat evenly and cut down on the time it takes to heat. Reduced heating time reduces the likelihood of the container warping, extending its life.
Furthermore, sauces, such as spaghetti sauce or ranch dressing, should be added in the last few seconds of cooking because liquids heat up faster than solid meals like meat. So, if you put them in the microwave sooner, the temperature will go up much higher. Ensure the plastic container is vented before microwaving the meal. Allow steam to escape by leaving the lid open.
If you’ve had success with microwave Ziploc containers, you already know that it’s quick and straightforward to you can continue using the same methods. Although all Ziploc containers are labelled “microwave safe,” the manufacturer’s packaging contains critical recommendations that should be read.
Ziploc is a remarkable enterprise that has always been exploring new ways to ensure that its consumers’ health comes first. Therefore, you as a customer must remember to use their products well and responsibly in order to ensure proper usage of the product.