Microwave Boxes

Before you buy microwave boxes, there are a few things you should know. Microwave safe boxes are made of plastic, CPET, and APET. Avoid Styrofoam, plastic, and APET. These materials can be harmful to the environment. So, you should always choose microwave-safe boxes. The following are some guidelines to follow when choosing microwave boxes. The first thing to do is to check the labels and packaging. Make sure they state that they're microwave safe.

Avoid Styrofoam

There are many reasons to avoid Styrofoam in your microwave. These plastic containers are often thin and can melt, which can lead to dangerous chemical leaching. The result is not only an unpleasant odor but a potential fire hazard as well. Lastly, you shouldn't microwave anything in a Styrofoam container, since it will not hold up as well as a more suitable plastic container.

Avoid plastic

While many people are concerned about the health effects of microwaving food in a plastic container, you don't have to. Most plastic food storage containers have an identification code printed on the bottom of the container, ranging from one to seven. The safest types of plastic are those with codes one, two, and four. The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends avoiding plastic containers with codes three and six, as these can contain chemicals known as Bisphenol A, which is known to cause birth defects and other health problems.

Avoid CPET

Plastics that can withstand high temperatures are labeled as CPET. These plastics are ideal for microwave use, but avoid APET, CPET #1, and clear packaging. Plastics with these codes are not microwave safe. If you must reheat a product in a microwave, choose a different material from those with wavy lines. Clear plastic is not safe for microwave use, so always check the label before purchasing a product.

Avoid APET

CPET (crystalline polyethylene terephthalate) is the only type of plastic approved for microwave use. Unlike other plastics, CPET will not turn clear in the microwave. Likewise, APET(E) containers are not microwave safe. These are typically used for storing cold foods. Other materials that are not microwave safe are Harvest Fiber containers, which are naturally compostable. Paper containers, on the other hand, will not be sturdy and will leak glue that can leach into the food and can be toxic if consumed.

Avoid APET(E)

If you're a microwave newbie, don't worry: plastic containers that are labeled APET(E) are not safe for heating. There are a few key differences between APET(E) and CPET. CPET has a crystallized plastic film, so it won't be clear. APET is not microwave-safe, and CPET is not dishwasher-safe. The plastic containers that you see on store shelves are made of CPET, which is coated to withstand high temperatures. Tupperware, Ziploc bags, and other plastic containers have long been categorized as microwave-safe.

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