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When you need to satisfy your hunger quickly, reheat last night’s leftovers in the oven Microwave Seems like the best solution. But if you heat it in a plastic container, you run the risk of ingestion Microplastics.
Since microplastics have become a popular topic lately, you may be wondering if plastic pollution is as dangerous as people say it is. Unfortunately, all signs point to yes. He studies after He studies It has shown that chemical exposure from microplastics can pose significant health risks and has been linked to an increase in medical problems such as infertility and even cancer.
Here’s everything you need to know about reheating leftovers safely.
Most takeout containers are not heat safe
Most black plastic containers are not microwave safe.
“If you are using takeout containers to reheat food, they should be labeled as heat safe,” advises Ricardo Jarquin, executive chef of (Loose Coral Gables, Miami).. “Most restaurants don’t use them because they’re more expensive.”
Aluminum, cardboard, and paper containers are usually plastic-free and safe for storing and reheating food. Cheap plastic containers are mostly not safe and should never be used to reheat food. Styrofoam is even worse because it melts in the microwave, which is a clear indicator that it is an unsafe container for reheating food.
Read more: These 7 takeout containers don’t belong in the recycling bin
What to use instead of plastic
It may seem like a little more work, but bringing your own food storage container for leftovers is the safest bet.
So what’s the best way to reheat that delicious meal? We spoke with Jarquin, who has overseen culinary operations and food safety protocol for major hotel chains including the Four Seasons, Hilton and Marriott, as well as Hope Montgomery, owner of the Brick and mortar in St. Petersburg, Florida, for the slimness in safe use of takeout containers.
Ideally, the restaurant uses biodegradable paper, aluminum or cardboard products, which can be found at Brick & Mortar and are Montgomery’s material of choice. The surefire way to ensure that food is stored and reheated in a heat-safe container (either by preheating or via microwave) is to simply use your own container.
“The safest containers are BPA-free containers, or even better glass containers like Pyrex,” Jarquin recommends. “Stainless steel and aluminum are great too, but not for the microwave.”
One of our favorite options is this Colorful set of 10 pieces Which provides comfort in multiple sizes. This means you can select the shape to suit the amount you plan to reheat or take home from a restaurant, from a full entrée to a few desserts.
Beware of plastic containers marketed as microwave and freezer safe
Many plastic containers are marketed as “freezer and microwave safe,” but this is not the case.
Many plastic containers are marketed as “freezer and microwave safe,” but this is mostly a marketing term. Plastic containers should never be frozen or microwaved. Ziploc and Rubbermaid It faces a lawsuit for advertising its plastic containers as “microwave-safe” and “freezer-safe.” When heated, plastic containers have been found to leach chemicals into the food. When frozen, plastic often breaks, which can lead to food contamination.
How to reheat food safely
Deli containers may be considered food safe, but glass and ceramic are safer options for reheating food in the microwave.
Even more important than Reheat your food until it tastes good It is to ensure that it is safe to eat. Never reheat leftovers in a container that is not heat-safe. This includes most cheap plastic containers that restaurants use, such as plastic clamshells or black plastic containers. Deli containers like the ones you get for chicken salad from the grocery store are considered “food safe” for storage but it’s still not recommended to use them to reheat food at high temperatures.
When reheating food in the microwave, always use glass or ceramic. Keep any containers, lids or utensils containing plastic or rubber out and use them for serving only.
How to reheat food so it tastes good
An air fryer is one of our favorite ways to reheat leftovers.
Aside from the risks of plastic exposure when storing hot food in these containers, you’ll want to make sure that reheating leftovers maintains overall quality.
“Although using the microwave is quick and easy, better results can often be achieved by reheating on the stove,” says Montgomery. “A little extra fat like olive oil and butter, as well as seasonings, can also be helpful,” she adds, noting that this doesn’t relate to some dishes like her restaurant’s famous beef, which must be consumed entirely on site.
Jarquin echoes these sentiments. “You get a much better result when you reheat leftovers in an appliance frying pan Or in oven“He confirms, revealing that some dishes may taste better when enjoyed the next day. “In Americana cuisine, rigatoni with vodka sauce remains tastier the next day. And any of our pizza or mushroom pasta is sure to go better the next day. “The flavors infuse more and the texture remains great when reheated slowly,” he says.
Other foods Jarquin recommends to enjoy at home after eating include “stews, curries, chili and lasagna,” which are typically items where flavors can continue to develop throughout the night.
Concerns about bacterial growth
Food, including cooked rice, can quickly develop bacteria if not stored properly.
Another danger to consider regarding food scraps is the rapid formation of bacteria that can often lead to short but sometimes serious illnesses. In short, the longer food stays out, the faster these germs grow.
“The general rule is that it takes about two hours at room temperature and one hour if it’s very hot” (usually above 90 degrees F), Jarquin said. “Then, the bacteria can grow quickly and you don’t always see or smell them. That’s why it’s important to either serve the food hot, cool it quickly, or keep it stored properly.”
Read more: I don’t mess with leftover rice — you shouldn’t either
At the end of the day, if you’re even slightly afraid of microplastics and/or foodborne illness, no leftovers are worth temporary satisfaction. Accept your losses and task yourself with preparing your own delicious homemade food to ensure safe, plastic-free meals within your own kitchen.
For a comprehensive guide to food safety protocol, check with the Centers for Disease Control Four steps to food safety.