Can You Put Takeaway Box in Microwave? What’s Safe?

Takeaway food is a favorite for many. It’s convenient, tasty, and often a much-needed break from cooking. But if you’ve ever found yourself wondering, "Can I microwave this takeaway boxes?" you’re not alone. The answer isn't always straightforward. Some takeaway containers are safe to microwave, while others are not. Understanding which ones can handle the heat is essential for both safety and the quality of your food.

In this blog post, we’ll dive into the safety of microwaving takeaway boxes, focusing on different materials and types. We’ll also discuss common concerns and provide tips on how to safely microwave your takeaway food boxes.

Understanding Takeaway Boxes and Materials

Takeaway boxes come in a variety of materials. The most common ones are plastic, cardboard, and foam. Each material behaves differently in a microwave, so knowing what you’re dealing with is the first step to microwaving safely.

1. Plastic Takeaway Boxes

Plastic containers are often used for takeaway food. They are lightweight, durable, and easy to handle. But when it comes to microwaving, plastic can be tricky. Some types of plastic are microwave-safe, while others may release harmful chemicals when heated.

The key to knowing whether your plastic takeaway box is microwave-safe is to check for a symbol. Most plastic containers have a microwave-safe label on the bottom. This label means that the plastic is designed to withstand heat without releasing toxic chemicals. However, not all plastics are created equal.

For instance, containers made from #3, #6, and #7 plastics (like polyvinyl chloride or polystyrene) may leach harmful substances when microwaved. These plastics are best avoided in the microwave.

2. Cardboard Takeaway Boxes

Cardboard takeaway boxes are another common choice for restaurants. They are typically used for pizza, burgers, or Chinese takeout. While cardboard is generally safe to microwave, there are some important things to keep in mind.

Most cardboard takeaway boxes are made from paperboard, which is safe for microwaving. However, cardboard boxes that are coated with wax or plastic should not be microwaved. The wax or plastic can melt and release chemicals that could be harmful when exposed to heat. Additionally, some cardboard takeaway boxes may have metal handles or fasteners. These parts can cause sparks in the microwave, posing a fire risk.

To play it safe, check if your cardboard takeaway box is labeled as microwave-safe or if it has any plastic coatings or metal parts. If it’s a plain, uncoated cardboard box, it’s usually safe for short bursts in the microwave.

3. Foam Takeaway Boxes

Foam takeaway boxes, typically made from expanded polystyrene (EPS), are not safe for microwaving. These containers are lightweight and inexpensive, but they don’t hold up well in the microwave. The foam can melt, release harmful chemicals, and even cause a fire in extreme cases.

It’s best to transfer your food from foam takeaway boxes into a microwave-safe container if you want to reheat it. Many restaurants have switched to more microwave-friendly materials in recent years, but foam boxes are still in use. Always be cautious when handling foam containers in the microwave.

Common Concerns When Microwaving Takeaway Boxes

When it comes to microwaving takeaway boxes, there are a few common concerns that people often raise. Let's take a look at some of these and address them.

1. Can You Microwave Cardboard Takeaway Boxes with Grease or Sauce?

Cardboard takeaway boxes are often used for pizza, fried food, or foods with a lot of sauce. These boxes can get soggy if exposed to too much moisture. When microwaving greasy or saucy foods, be cautious about the box's ability to withstand heat and moisture.

Cardboard can absorb moisture, which might cause it to lose its structural integrity. In some cases, the box may become soft or soggy. This isn’t necessarily dangerous, but it can lead to spills or messes. If your takeaway box is heavily soaked with sauce or grease, it’s better to transfer the food to a microwave-safe plate or bowl to avoid mess.

2. What Happens If You Microwave Plastic Takeaway Boxes?

If you microwave plastic takeaway boxes that aren’t microwave-safe, they can warp, melt, or release harmful chemicals. These chemicals can affect the taste and safety of your food. Overheating can also cause plastic to leach substances like BPA (bisphenol A), which has been linked to various health problems.

It’s essential to check the container before microwaving. If it doesn’t have a microwave-safe label, it’s better to err on the side of caution and avoid microwaving it. When in doubt, transfer your food to a microwave-safe glass or ceramic container instead.

3. Can Takeaway Boxes Catch Fire in the Microwave?

In some cases, takeaway boxes can catch fire in the microwave. This usually happens when there is metal involved. Some cardboard takeaway boxes may have metal fasteners or handles, which are not microwave-safe. When microwaved, metal objects can create sparks and ignite a fire.

If your takeaway box has any metal parts, it’s best to remove them before microwaving. Alternatively, transfer the food into a microwave-safe container. Also, keep an eye on your microwave while it’s running to ensure that no sparks or flames occur.

4. Do You Need to Remove the Lid Before Microwaving Takeaway Boxes?

If your takeaway box has a lid, it’s important to check if it is microwave-safe. Some lids are made of plastic that is microwave-safe, while others are not. If the lid is made from microwave-safe plastic, you can leave it on, but make sure there’s a vent or hole to allow steam to escape. If the lid is not microwave-safe or made of a material like foam, it should be removed before microwaving.

Tips for Safe Microwaving of Takeaway Boxes

Now that we’ve covered the different materials and common concerns, here are a few tips to help you microwave your takeaway food boxes safely.

Check for Microwave-Safe Labels: Always look for microwave-safe labels on plastic takeaway boxes. If there’s no label, don’t microwave it.

Avoid Microwaving Foam Containers: Never microwave foam takeaway boxes. Transfer your food to a microwave-safe container to avoid health risks.

Remove Metal Parts: If your cardboard takeaway box has metal fasteners or handles, remove them before microwaving.

Use Microwave-Safe Plates or Containers: When in doubt, always transfer your food to a microwave-safe plate or bowl. Glass or ceramic containers are the safest choice.

Use Short Bursts of Heat: Heat your food in short bursts of time (30 seconds to 1 minute) to avoid overheating the box or food.

Check the Box for Moisture: If your cardboard takeaway box is soggy from sauce or grease, it might not hold up well in the microwave. Transfer the food to another container.

Keep an Eye on the Microwave: Always monitor your microwave while reheating food in takeaway boxes to ensure nothing overheats or catches fire.

Conclusion

Microwaving takeaway boxes can be a convenient way to enjoy your leftovers, but it’s important to know which containers are safe. While plastic, cardboard, and foam are commonly used materials for takeaway food boxes, not all of them are microwave-safe. Plastic containers should have a microwave-safe label, and cardboard boxes are generally safe unless they have metal parts or plastic coatings. Foam takeaway boxes should never be microwaved.

By following the tips outlined in this guide, you can safely reheat your takeaway food without worrying about potential hazards. Always check the labels, avoid materials like foam, and use microwave-safe containers whenever possible.