Get the Facts: Plastics in the Microwave

Every day, plastic packaging helps keep our food safe and our families healthy. Plastic wraps, food storage containers and sealable bags keep food fresh and free of contamination, while saving us time and freeing us to pursue the things we enjoy. Over the last quarter of a century, microwave ovens have become standard equipment in our kitchens. Indeed, plastic packaging and microwave ovens work together to make our food preparation fast and easy while delivering high quality meals. The flexibility and heat resistance of specially designed plastics make it the material of choice for a variety of applications involving the microwave oven. Despite the routine and safe practice of microwaving foods contained in plastic, recent allegations have stirred unnecessary confusion over the appropriateness of using these materials in a microwave oven. Use this section to access documents which provide common sense guidelines for the safe use of plastics in the microwave, explain the history of the rumors about the issue, and provide access to what the experts say about this issue.

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Setting the Record Straight

For decades, consumers have appreciated the important role plastics play in helping to keep food safe and healthful. Water and juice bottles, freezer bags and cold cut packages are just some of the examples on store shelves. In the home, plastic wraps, food storage containers and sealable bags help keep your family safe and your food fresh and free of contamination. But lately you may have seen or read news coverage that raises questions about many plastics. What you may not have heard is that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) - charged with protecting public health - regulates food and medical uses of plastics to ensure their safety.

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