Microwave Rules
ask an expert: microwaving plasticscanada
(Jul.20.10)
I've heard microwaving the wrong type of plastic can cause toxins to leak into your food. How can I be sure that I'm being safe?
Heidi P. emailed us at expert@sweetspot.ca, and The David Suzuki Foundation's Queen of Green, Lindsay Coulter answered:
Here’s a tip that will make living green easier. DO NOT microwave any plastic containers or plastic wrap, ever.
Instead, go on a plastic diet:
Step 1: Reduce the amount of plastic packaging entering your home. This could mean buying in bulk. It's cheaper and requires less packaging.
Step 2: Store leftovers in reusable glass or stainless steel containers.
Step 3: If you reuse plastic containers, choose those numbered two, four, or five (this number is found at the bottom of containers and lids). I like to remember this jingle “two, four, five, keep yourself alive” since these are the ones known to leach the least amount of toxins.
It could be time to take stock of plastic containers spilling out of those kitchen cupboards. Check for cracks and scratches. Damage like this will ruin last night’s leftovers because toxic chemicals can leach out. Before tossing them in the recycling bin, repurpose them in other places throughout the home.
Worn plastic containers (with or without lids) can make great storage. Organize that cluttered closet or crayons at the craft table. When reusing plastic containers in your kitchen, make sure they are numbered two, four or five, and DO NOT put them in the microwave or dishwasher.
For more information on plastics, check out our Plastics Guide to help you identify reusability. Keep in mind that when it comes to recyclability, it varies from city to city depending on your municipal blue bin program or drop off depot. Another general rule of thumb is that number 1 is highly recyclable but numbers 6 and 7 are not. You can also check out a similar question I had from a reader about Plastic versus Glass.
Lindsay Coulter is David Suzuki’s Queen of Green™ with the David Suzuki Foundation.Ever since her own environmentally friendly wedding, Lindsay regularly provides media commentary on everyday, green living. From turning events into eco-celebrations, to saving money by making your own natural products, the Queen of Green™ has the answers to make your life a little easier on the environment.
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