Can You Microwave Tupperware?

Can You Microwave Tupperware?

Tupperware is one of the most well-known names in food storage and convenient food packaging. While the term “Tupperware” is generically used to refer to plastic or glass storage containers that have a snap and close type lid, Tupperware is actually a very unique branded product produced by the American company registered under the same name.

The company Tupperware manufactures, and distributes its food storage products across several countries.

Can You Microwave Tupperware?

But back to the question at hand, can you microwave Tupperware? The answer is yes but there are some conditions.

Some Tupperware containers are plastic based and there are schools of thought that suggest that microwaved plastic releases cancer-causing chemicals called dioxins that may seep into food. But this warning is in itself problematic, mainly because plastic materials do not inherently contain the element dioxin. Dioxins are a by-product of burning a wide range of materials that does include plastics. But as long as the food is not being burnt in the microwave then you technically are not exposing yourself to dioxins. Still, there are several other factors to consider when microwaving ‘Tupperware’.

Before We Get into It, Let’s Take A Look At What Tupperware Is.

Tupperware was invented by a chemist named Earl Tupper in early 1946. His concept was to create lightweight and non-breakable plastic containers. In the initial phase, Tupperware struggled to sell his product.

It was not until the early 1950s when a single mother called Brownie Wise joined the Tupper Corporation that the company took off. Wise was given a set of Tupperware bowls by a friend and created a home party sensation from it, introducing the “Tupperware party” concept. Founder Earl Tupper took notice of her successful partying and the growing interest in his products as a result. He asked Brownie to become his Vice President and the rest is history.

A Tupperware party is a gathering during which a host entertains guests, and provides them with an opportunity to order Tupperware products. The host generally gets a commission on the sales.

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Should You Be Microwaving Tupperware Containers?

Tupperware indicates that all their containers are BPA free. BPA is a chemical that is used in the manufacturing of many plastic and containers for food storage. Some researchers have expressed concern that BPA can seep into food or beverages from containers. Exposure to BPA is a concern because of possible health effects on the brain, behaviour and prostate gland of foetuses, infants and children. This, however, is not an area of concern with Tupperware.

Tupperware containers are generally safe for use in the microwave. As a precaution, however, you should always check the container to see if it contains the microwave friendly sign.

The symbol is usually on the bottom of the container, and contains 4 or 5 wavy lines. If you do not see this sign on the container, then you should not put it in a microwave.

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So What’s the Verdict?

Basically, deciding to microwave or not to microwave is a matter of knowing what product you have. The labelling on the product packaging should help to guide you. Most plastic containers made after 2010 will be BPA free, so this is one less thing to worry about.

Look for the microwave friendly sign. If it’s missing, or you are uncertain, just don’t use plastics in your microwave at all.

While it might be inconvenient to have to transfer food and wash up glass containers, your safest and healthiest bet is to transfer the food to a non-reactive glass or ceramic dish before microwaving.

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