University of Melbourne professor explains how dangerous and unhealthy is to re-heat food in plastic containers

Dr. Mark Green, a lecturer at the University of Melbourne, issued a warning that it is dangerous to heat food in a plastic container in the microwave. Doing so puts one’s health at jeopardy.

He explains how the containers made of plastic are made up of plasticizers, which give the containers an elastic and pliable shape. Bisphenol A, generally known as BPA, and phthalates are two examples of common plasticizers that are utilized by manufacturers. They are also frequently employed in various types of products that are used on a daily basis, such as toiletries and canned food. Plasticizers are known to have an effect on the reproductive process and have been connected to a variety of other health issues including diabetes, asthma, and obesity.

Plasticizers have been shown to lower the number of sperm in males and the number of eggs in women. According to Green, an increased exposure to plasticizers is also associated with an increased risk of miscarriage.

When food is heated in a container made of plastic, the concern is that the plasticizer can move about inside the container. The greater the temperature rises, the more motion the plasticizer will exhibit. Additionally, the likelihood of dissolving increases proportionately with the amount of fat present in the diet, such as bacon or salmon.

Plasticizers have been removed from infant bottles in several countries as a result of this possible risk, including France, which has restricted their use in certain products, and the European Union, which withdrew them from baby bottles. The same preventative measures have been implemented by Brazil, Malaysia, and China.

It is possible that the plastic has melted if there are stains on the dishes. Plastic joints present a significant risk to customers and have been identified in a wide variety of products, many of which may come as a surprise to them. According to Green, they are present in things like cans, bills, plastic bottles, personal care items, shampoos, and conditioners, among other things.

There are detectable amounts of BPA in the urine of around 95 percent of the general population.