Just what are those hieroglyphics on the bottom of the plastic storage containers you put your food in? Can you put them in the microwave? What about the dishwasher?
If it actually says, “Microwave Safe” or “Microwavable” you’re golden. But, after a great deal of internet research, we can find no ONE official “microwavable” symbol to ensure your plastic container is microwave safe.
Look for some wavy lines. It might be paired with something that looks like a plate or bowl. Or the wavy lines might be enclosed in a couple of rectangular boxes with circles on one side. All these symbols mean microwave safe.
Dishwasher safe usually has a plate (or two) with lines or drops of water above it. Sometimes it might have the words “top rack.” But you should only put the plastic containers on the top rack anyway.
A snowflake means it’s okay to put in the freezer.
And if it has the number 2, 4, or 5 inside a triangle made up of arrows, it means you can reuse it. If it has a 1, it means it can only be used for food one time.
According to plasticsinfo.org, “All plastics intended for food use – whether designed for the microwave or not – must meet stringent FDA safety standards before they can be marketed to consumers.”
Another little tidbit worth noting: That idea that plastic containers have dioxins in them that can leach into your food? According to the Food and Drug Administration, “With regard to dioxins, we have seen no evidence that plastic containers or films contain dioxins and know of no reason why they would.”
Bottom line? A lot of containers are made today to withstand microwave temperatures. If the item doesn’t have the squiggly lines or doesn’t say “microwave safe” use a different container.