Do not place take-out containers in the microwave. This is the reason
Reheat the leftovers from last night when hunger and laziness match microwave oven It seems like a great idea. But if they reheat them in a plastic container they contain, you can ingest Microplastics and harmful chemicals.
But as experts say, is plastic contamination dangerous? All signs refer to “yes.” study rear study The resulting chemical exposure of microplastics has been shown to pose a significant health risk and is associated with an increased number of medical problems such as infertility and cancer. It’s all you need to know about safely reheating leftovers.
Most take-out containers are not heat-safe
Most black plastic containers are not microwaves.
“If you use takeout containers to reheat food, they need to label them to match the heat.” Lowes Coral Gables in Miami. “Most restaurants don’t use it because it’s more expensive.”
Aluminum, cardboard and paper-based containers are usually plastic-free and can be stored and reheated for safe food. Inexpensive plastic takeout containers are hardly safe and should not be used to reheat food. Styrofoam is even worse because it melts in the microwave. This clearly indicates that it is an unsafe container for reheating food.
read more: These 7 takeout containers do not belong to recycle bins
What to use instead of plastic
It may sound like more work, but bringing your own food storage container with you for leftovers is the safest bet.
So, what is the best way to reheat that delicious meal? We chatted with Jarquin, who oversees the culinary operations and food safety protocols for major hotel chains such as the Hilton and Marriott, and Hope Montgomery, owner of Hope Montgomery. Brick and mortar Get skinny in the safe use of take-out containers in St. Petersburg, Florida.
Ideally, the restaurant will use compostable paper, aluminum or cardboard products. This is the ingredient of Montgomery’s choice, which can be found at Brick & Mortar. The surest way to ensure that food is stored and stored in heat-safe containers (either initial temperature or by microwave) and reheated is simply to use your own.
“The safest containers are BPA-free or glass like Pyrex,” Jarquin recommends. “Stainless steel and aluminum are great too. Not a microwave.”
One of our favorite options is this Colorful 10-piece set It offers convenience in multiple sizes. This means you can limit the shape to accommodate the amount you plan to reheat from the restaurant or take home.
Beware of plastic containers sold as microwave and freezer safe
Many plastic containers are sold as “freezers and microwave safes,” but that’s not the case.
Many plastic containers are sold as “freezers and microwave safes,” but that is primarily a marketing terminology. Do not actually freeze plastic containers or microwave them. Ziploc and Rubbermaid It faces lawsuits to promote plastic-based containers as “microwave safety” and “freezer safe.” When heated, you can see that plastic containers leach chemicals into food. When frozen, plastic often breaks and can contaminate food.
How to safely reheat food
While deli containers may be considered food safe, glass and ceramics are a safer option for reheating food in the microwave.
More important Reheat the food to make it taste good We are making sure it is safe. Do not reheat leftovers on a non-heat-safe boat. This includes most inexpensive plastic containers used in restaurants, such as plastic clamshells and black plastic containers. Deli containers like grocery store chicken salads are considered “food safe” for storage, but it is not yet recommended to use them to reheat food at high temperatures.
Always use glass or ceramic when reheating food in the microwave. Use only to store and serve containers, lids or cookware containing plastic or rubber.
Reheating food makes it tasty
Air fryers are one of our favorite ways to reheat leftovers.
Aside from the risk of plastic exposure when hot food is stored in those containers, it is necessary to ensure that reheating of leftovers maintains overall quality.
“Microwaves are quick and easy, but reheating in Stovetop gives you better results,” says Montgomery. “A little extra fat like olive oil, butter, seasonings, etc. can also be helpful,” she adds.
Jerkin reflects these feelings. “Reheating leftovers gives much better results Frying pan or oven“He emphasizes and makes it clear that some dishes even taste better when you enjoy the next day. And our pizza and mushroom pasta definitely gets better the next day. The flavors get even more soaked, and when you slowly reheat the texture remains fantastic,” he says.
Other foods Jarquin recommended for enjoying at home after meals include “stew, curry, chili, and lasagna.” This is an item that usually allows the flavor to continue to develop overnight.
Concerns about bacterial growth
Foods containing cooked rice can quickly develop bacteria if not properly stored.
Another risk to consider with leftovers is the rapid formation of bacteria, which can lead to short but sometimes serious illnesses. In short, the longer the food sits, the faster these spores grow.
“The general rule is that it takes about two hours at room temperature and an hour if it really gets hot,” Jarquin said. “The bacteria then grow quickly and don’t always see or smell it. So it’s important to provide hot food, chill quickly, and store it properly.”
read more: I’m not messing around with the rest of the food – you shouldn’t either
At the end of the day, if you are a little afraid of microplastics or foodborne illnesses, there is no value for the rest of the time worthy of temporary satisfaction. Accept your losses and launch your own homemade delicateness and leave it to ensuring a safe, plastic-free bite in the comfort of your own kitchen.
For a comprehensive guide to food safety protocols, see the CDC Four steps to food safety.