The short answer to this question is that, at this point, there is no definitive research linking microwaving foods in plastic containers to cancer. However, potential health risks have been associated with the use of microwaveable plastic containers due to the potential release of chemicals such as phthalates, bisphenol A (BPA), and polyvinyl chloride (PVC).
The majority of plastic containers marketed for use in microwaves are made with the plastic resin polyethylene terephthalate (PET). While PET is approved for microwave use, a few studies suggest that some components of PET containers, such as antimony, may leach into food. Antimony has been known to cause complications such as breathing problems when inhaled or ingested. Additionally, it has not been definitively ruled out that chemicals in the plastic of or released from heated plastics could be hazardous to human health.
Products labeled “microwave safe” generally contain less of these potentially hazardous ingredients than products not labeled as such. As such, it is generally considered safe to microwave food in such containers, as long as they are labeled as “microwave safe.”To further reduce potential health risks and exposure to toxins, microwaving food in glass, ceramic, and paper have been recommended. As an additional precaution, some health experts recommend avoiding microwaving fatty foods, such as meat and cheese, in plastic containers altogether. Furthermore, it’s a good idea to discard any plastic containers that are starting to crack or show signs of wear and tear.
