Can You Microwave Tupperware? The Truth About Plastic Food Containers

For decades, plastic has been the go-to for food packaging: it’s cheap, easy to transport, and believed to be microwave safe. However, recent studies about the harms linked with plastic packagings have made people question this. Can you microwave Tupperware? What about other types of plastic? Here’s what you need to know.

Can You Microwave Tupperware?

When you search online to see whether or not you can microwave Tupperware, you’ll find that many plastic food container brands proudly state that they are BPA-free and, therefore, safe to microwave. In response to recent studies on the health risks of exposure to BPAs, these companies began removing them from their products and using alternatives instead.

But does this mean you should keep using and microwaving Tupperware and other plastic food containers? The short answer is: no, you should avoid it as much as possible, and here’s why.

The Problem With Plastic Containers

BPA, or Bisphenol A, is a chemical typically in rigid plastic. It also happens to be a weak synthetic estrogen, which means when it enters the human body it can disrupt our hormones. 

This becomes problematic when plastic containers made from polypropylene or polyethylene are exposed to high temperatures, such as in the microwave or dishwasher. When heated, the plastic begins to break down and leaches harmful chemicals into your food or drinks.

BPA has been linked to cancer, issues with reproductive development, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.

While BPA seems to be making its way out, studies show that replacements such as Bisphenol S (BPS) and Bisphenol F (BPF) are also potentially hazardous.

One study found that children with higher levels of these chemicals in their urine had a higher likelihood of being obese than children with lower levels. Additionally, other BPA-free polycarbonate alternatives have been shown to leach chemicals with estrogenic activity. This includes polycarbonate replacements using polystyrene, acrylic, polyethersulfone, and Tritan resins.

Ultimately, it appears that whether plastic contains BPA or BPA alternatives, it’s safest to avoid heating or microwaving it altogether. Where possible, avoiding plastic completely is the best thing you can do for your health and for the planet.

So, what are the alternatives?

Even though some plastic-free options are not yet microwaveable, they can still provide a safe, non-toxic way to store and transport food. Whether you’re meal-prepping, packing lunch, or keeping leftovers fresh, these eco-friendly alternatives help you ditch plastic while ensuring your food stays free from harmful chemicals.

Alternatives to Tupperware and Plastic Food Containers

To avoid plastic food containers, consider trying the following:

 

EngravingLand Glass Container  

Glass containers are a stylish, non-toxic, and eco-friendly choice for food storage. Unlike plastic, glass doesn’t leach harmful chemicals, and is microwave, dishwasher and oven safe. The easiest way to start is by reusing old jars, like pasta sauce, jam, or peanut butter jars.

Otherwise, if you’re looking for something sleek you can try these glass containers by EngravingLand. They’re made of resistant glass with a bamboo lid that you can get custom-engraved for a more personal touch!

Quick tip: Make sure to always remove metal or bamboo lids before microwaving. Cover the top with a paper towel if you don’t want any mess or splatters. Finally, to prevent damage, avoid sudden temperature changes, such as placing a hot jar directly in the freezer.

 

Moonmoon Metal Lunchbox

Although they’re not microwaveable, metal lunchboxes are a great alternative to plastic containers. Stainless steel is lightweight, unbreakable, and built to last for decades. Plus, unlike plastic, it’s non-toxic and free of harmful chemicals.

This MoonMoon metal lunchbox works great for storing, transporting, and keeping your food fresh. It’s leakproof and made of high-quality stainless steel. It also has two removable dividers, so you can use it to store you food or as a lunch box for when you’re on the go.

Keep in mind that, since it’s made of metal, it can’t be microwaved. Fortunately, it is freezer and oven safe, so you can still safely store and reheat your meals in it!

 

Silicone Stasher Bag

Silicone storage bags are a practical reusable alternative to ziplocks, perfect for cold foods, snacks or even half-eaten sandwiches! Some silicone products, however, often contain those harmful BPA alternatives, just like Tupperware.

Instead, we recommend using products like Stasher bags, made from 100% pure platinum-grade silicone. They’re hypoallergenic and completely BPA, BPS, latex or phthalates-free. Unlike plastic, these bags are non-toxic and freezer, microwave, and oven-safe (up to 200°C).

They also come in different sizes, such as small bags for packing snacks, or half-gallon bags for storing large leftover meals. When it’s time to clean up, just wash by hand or toss them in the dishwasher.

Bee’s Wrap Beeswax Wraps

 Beeswax wraps are a wonderful reusable, all-natural alternative to plastic wrap or cling film. These ones by Bee’s Wrap are made from GOTS-certified organic cotton and coated with sustainably harvested beeswax, organic jojoba oil, and tree resin. All natural ingredients which have antibacterial properties, keeping food fresh longer.

Bee’s Wrap is also a certified B-Corp, committing to its plastic-free mission by shipping in recyclable packaging made from recycled content. 

To use these wraps, just warm them up in your hands to soften the wax and mould them around bowls or loose foods. As they cool, they stiffen and create a secure seal. Once they become worn out, you can cut them into strips and compost them, or re-coat them with beeswax to extend their use.

So, next time someone asks if can you microwave Tupperware, let them know what the risks are! When in doubt, it’s always better to transfer your food to a plate or bowl before microwaving. If you’re looking for more plastic-free kitchen content, check out our post on zero waste kitchen swaps here!

 

Have you tried any of these Tupperware alternatives? Leave a Comment to Let us know Your Favourite Ones!

Ready to act? Sign up for our 30-Day Plastic Free Challenge and get a free calendar packed with simple steps to reduce plastic waste and live more sustainably. Make a difference, one day at a time!

We hope you’ve found this blog helpful! As always, you can support Aim Plastic Free by buying a cup of tea or sharing the site with a friend. Your support means the world to us!