Microwaving Plastic: Doctors Reveal Hidden Dangers & Safer Alternatives

• Doctors caution that while microwaving plastic isn't immediately toxic, repeated exposure over years can affect health by releasing microplastics and chemicals like BPA and phthalates into food.
• Dr. Kanika Sood Sharma and Dr. Deepak Jha emphasize that 'microwave-safe' labels only mean containers won't melt, not that they are chemical-free, especially with repeated use or damage.
• Heating plastic, particularly with oily, acidic, or spicy foods, can cause microplastics and chemicals to leach, potentially contributing to inflammation, hormonal changes, and metabolic stress.
• Long-term exposure to chemicals from plastic can disrupt endocrine function, impacting fertility, thyroid, metabolism, and early puberty, though effects accumulate slowly.
• Experts recommend switching to glass or ceramic containers for reheating, avoiding single-use plastics, and discarding damaged containers to reduce chemical exposure and protect health.

Why It Matters: Microwaving food in plastic poses long-term health risks due to chemical leaching; opt for glass or ceramic.