Many takeaway businesses like to use plastic disposable boxes to pack meals, but not all plastic disposable boxes can be heated in the microwave.
Most plastic boxes will have a triangular logo on it and a number on it.
Some people mistakenly think that the number here means that the plastic box can be reused several times: "1" means it can only be used once, "2" means it can be used twice...
But this is not the case. The numbers here represent the material of the plastic container. The production materials are different, and the taboos for use are also different. Some are not resistant to high temperatures, some are not easy to clean...
There is only one material that is resistant to high temperature and suitable for microwave heating, and that is polypropylene (PP). The plastic material identification code is "5", as shown in the figure below.
So, before putting food in the microwave, be sure to check whether there is a "PP" on the plastic lunch box or a "5" on the triangular arrow.
If there is no corresponding mark on the disposable lunch box, it is best to use a container suitable for microwave oven for heating.
Of course, even if it is a takeaway box that can be heated by microwave, it is not recommended to use it again after heating it once. Microwave heating and the original oil in the food will accelerate the migration of some substances in the box that may be harmful to the body. Moreover, the material of the takeaway box is relatively thin and brittle, which is not suitable for repeated use.
Paper disposable tableware, pay attention to whether there is plastic covering film
In addition to plastic disposable lunch boxes, many restaurants also choose paper disposable tableware to pack food.
Generally speaking, this type of box with a matte texture and no plastic film can be placed in the microwave.
This type of tableware is made of bagasse, straw and other raw materials. Its biggest advantage is that it is safer, and the technology used is closer to the papermaking technology. Products of relatively high quality can also be heated in a microwave oven.
However, tableware made of cardboard and plastic film should not be heated in the microwave as much as possible.
The paper cups, instant noodle buckets, and kraft paper tableware that we commonly see belong to this category of tableware.
Most of the plastic films used in the internal coating of such tableware are PE-coated. With the enhancement of environmental protection awareness, more and more businesses use degradable PLA-coated tableware. However, these films are not resistant to high temperatures and are not suitable for heating in microwave ovens.
In addition to this type of tableware, some caring merchants often wrap a layer of plastic wrap on the outside of the takeaway box in order to prevent the soup from splashing out.
To be on the safe side, try to tear off the plastic wrap before putting it in the microwave. Because it is not clear whether the business is using PE plastic wrap or PVC wrap. PE can go in the microwave, PVC can't (the plasticizer will migrate out).
If you are worried about the soup splashing during microwave heating, you can wrap it with a layer of plastic wrap that says it can go into the microwave on the package or cover it with a microwave cover.