Are there any risks using a non-microwavable plastic plate in the microwave?
We have some plates we bought from Target a few years ago that we frequently use in the microwave. These plates are listed as not being microwave safe.
Does that mean that they could cause health issues if we use them in the microwave, or does that just mean that the microwave could ruin the plates?
Best Answer
Yes, there are risks. Avoiding those risks is the entire point of the microwave-safe labeling.
When plastic is marked as microwave-safe (in the US), it means that the material has been tested and found not to release harmful chemicals when heated, by FDA guidelines. This is a stronger assertion than just that it doesn't melt. Something that's unsafe in the microwave may not show it visibly; it may leach chemicals without melting.
It's entirely possible that something not marked as microwave-safe may actually be safe, and just not be tested. But you have no way to know, and you should assume that anything unmarked could potentially be harmful.
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Quick Answer about "Are there any risks using a non-microwavable plastic plate in the microwave?"
It is made (at least partially) from materials that absorb microwaves, so that it will heat up during microwave use. This is generally considered a bad thing in microwave cookery and can lead to burns if you touch the plate with your hands, as well as melting or warping of the plate.Will I be okay if I ate food from non microwavable plastic and the plastic melted a bit?
If you're reheating some food in a plastic container, there's a good chance it's made from PP. Because these containers all contain food, the FDA has approved them as a "food-contact substance," meaning there's little to no risk of them leeching harmful chemicals into the food.Why are plastic plates not microwave safe?
Microwaving plastic can release harmful chemicals like BPA and phthalates into your foods and drinks. Therefore, you should avoid microwaving plastic, unless it's labeled for this specific use.Are normal plates microwave safe?
Plain paper plates can be microwaved, but some disposable tableware is actually coated in a thin layer of plastic. Before you microwave a paper plate or bowl, be sure that it's clearly marked as microwave safe.What happens if you microwave melamine dishes?
Melamine dinnerware acts much the same when it's frequently microwaved or exposed to temps hotter than 160\xb0F. The thirsty material will eventually brown, become brittle and break, chip, or crack long before its normal service life should be up.VERIFY: Is it safe to microwave food in plastic containers?
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Answer 2
There are two main reasons a plate could be labeled as not suitable for use in a microwave:
It is made (at least partially) from materials that absorb microwaves, so that it will heat up during microwave use. This is generally considered a bad thing in microwave cookery and can lead to burns if you touch the plate with your hands, as well as melting or warping of the plate.
It is made from materials which are not food safe when microwaved, due to off gassing or whatever other reason. It may leave a harmful substance in the foods.
In the US to be labelled microwave safe, the item must be tested by the FDA. Failure to display that label does not mean it is unsafe necessarily; it may not have been tested.
Either way, it is not a good idea to use a plate which is not microwave safe in the microwave. Only use known microwave safe plastic items.
See also: Harvard Health, Microwaving food in plastic: Dangerous or not?
Answer 3
I once had a cheap Chinese plastic bowl explode in my oven shattering my glass turnstile not to mention my nerves. It is just not worth risking your oven or your health by not using microwave safe equipment. Glass is always a safe bet and is not expensive.
Sources: Stack Exchange - This article follows the attribution requirements of Stack Exchange and is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.
Images: Kamaji Ogino, Kamaji Ogino, Pixabay, Vegan Liftz