Plasticizers used in the making of plastics may diffuse into food during cooking in a microwave oven. This can be minimized by taking simple precautions.
Types of plastic that may come in contact with food:
(1) plastic containers
(2) plastic plates or utensils
(3) cling wrap (made of polyvinyl chloride or vinylidine chloride)
Factor
High Diffusion
Low Diffusion
type of plastic
not microwave safe
microwave safe
contact with food
direct
not in direct contact (ideally an inch or more away)
fat content of food
high
none or low
exposure time
long
short
microwave power setting
high
low
concentration of plasticizer
high
very low
Plastics should not be used for cooking in a conventional oven or on a conventional stove.
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