Which food containers are microwave-safe?
Microwavable plastic containers made from polypropylene (PP, recycling code 5) are the most common microwave-safe food containers in the Philippines. Paper and bagasse containers are also generally microwave-safe. Aluminum trays and PET plastic containers are not microwave-safe and should never go in a microwave. Always check the container label or product specification for a microwave-safe symbol before use.
Microwave-safe container types
- Polypropylene (PP) plastic containers: The standard choice for microwavable rice meals and takeout. Look for recycling code 5 or a microwave-safe symbol on the bottom.
- Paper containers: Plain paper and paperboard containers are microwave-safe for short reheating. Avoid paper with metallic coatings or foil linings.
- Bagasse containers: Made from sugarcane fiber, these are microwave-safe and also eco-friendly. They handle reheating well for most food types.
Containers that are NOT microwave-safe
- Aluminum trays and foil: Metal causes sparking in microwaves and can damage the appliance. Aluminum trays are oven-safe, not microwave-safe.
- PET plastic (recycling code 1): Commonly used for clear cold-drink cups and salad containers. PET can warp or release chemicals when microwaved.
- Polystyrene/Styrofoam (recycling code 6): Can melt or deform when heated. Avoid microwaving Styrofoam entirely.
Why it matters for your food business
If your customers are likely to reheat the food you deliver, choosing microwave-safe containers improves their experience. A customer who can pop the container straight into the microwave without transferring food is more likely to order again. For Filipino food businesses selling rice meals, adobo, sinigang, or other dishes meant to be eaten hot, microwavable PP containers are the safest and most practical choice.
How to identify microwave-safe containers
- Look for the microwave-safe symbol (wavy lines) on the container bottom
- Check the recycling code: PP (code 5) is safe; PET (code 1) and PS (code 6) are not
- When in doubt, ask your supplier for the product specification sheet
- Test a sample container with water in the microwave for 1 minute. If the container stays cool while the water heats up, it is microwave-safe.
Frequently asked questions
Can I microwave food in a plastic container?
Only if the plastic container is made from polypropylene (PP, recycling code 5) or is explicitly labeled as microwave-safe. Other plastics like PET (code 1) or polystyrene (code 6) should not be microwaved because they can warp, melt, or release harmful chemicals when heated.
Are all paper containers microwave-safe?
Most plain paper and paperboard containers are microwave-safe for brief reheating. However, paper containers with metallic or foil coatings are not safe for the microwave. Always check whether the paper has any metallic lining before microwaving.
Why can you not put aluminum trays in the microwave?
Aluminum is a metal, and metal reflects microwaves instead of absorbing them. This causes electrical sparks (arcing) inside the microwave, which can damage the appliance and is a fire hazard. Use aluminum trays in conventional ovens only.
Related questions
Ready to order?
Have questions? Reach us on Messenger or call +63 917 322 0717.