Are you wondering if you can microwave ziploc bags? That’s exactly why we are here today to talk about microwaving ziploc bags and provide alternatives, and provide tips for safe microwave use.
Microwaving not only saves time but also makes reheating and cooking more convenient. However, the safety of microwaving in plastic containers and bags, like ziplock bags, is often a topic of concern.
These other articles are worth your read if you have such queries about using a microwave: Is Pyrex microwave safe? You learn all you need to know about using glass safely in the microwave. Can you microwave a Yeti cup? Check that out too. Can Ziploc bags be microwaved? Are they microwave safe, let’s find out.
What Are Ziploc Bags?
Ziplock bags are resealable plastic bags in various sizes commonly used for storing food. They help keep food fresh by sealing out air and preventing contamination. You can use ziplock bags to freeze food and pack lunches and snacks.
The term "Ziploc" is a brand name owned by SC Johnson, a company known for its household cleaning supplies and other consumer chemicals. However, it is often used generically to refer to any similar resealable plastic bag.
Is it Ziploc or Ziplock?
Though both words are now used interchangeably by many people. The correct term is Ziploc which is the brand name. Just like Brussel sprouts and Brussels sprouts where it’s actually Brussels sprouts not Brussel sprouts.
Uses of Ziploc bags
These bags are incredibly versatile. You can use them for a wide range of things from food storage to craft projects.
- Marinating meats: these bags are popularly used for marinating meats.
- Food storage: Ziplock bags are often used to store food items, as they can keep air and moisture out, which helps to preserve freshness. They are useful for packing lunches, storing leftovers, or keeping ingredients separate until needed.
- Organization: They are also great for organizing small items like office supplies, craft materials, or hardware.
- Protection: They can protect items from water damage, dust, and other environmental factors.
Can you microwave ziplock bags?
Yes you can microwave ziplock bags, but with caution. Most ziploc bags are labeled as "microwave-safe". This means they don't contain harmful chemicals when heated.
While they are heat-resistant up to around 195°F (90°C) they will begin to melt beyond this point.
Therefore ziploc bags are not recommended for cooking especially certain foods with high fat content. These bags are best used for microwave reheat only options.
How do you know if a ziploc bag is microwave safe?
Look for a label or symbol on the packaging that indicates it is safe for microwave use. If you cannot find any information on the packaging, do not risk using it in the microwave.
Our best tips for using ziploc bags in the microwave
Read the label: Always check if the ziploc bag is labeled as "microwave-safe". If it is not, avoid using it in the microwave.
Vent the bag; As food heats up, steam builds up within the bag. If the bag is sealed, this steam has nowhere to escape and causes the bag to expand or burst. To prevent this, leave the bag slightly open to allow steam escape gradually and prevent the bag from bursting. Alternatively depending on what you are reheating use a fork to puncture a few holes. (This is not recommended when reheating liquid food).
Place bags on microwave safe containers: When using a ziplock bag in the microwave, placing it on a microwave-safe plate or bowl is a good idea. If the bag does not hold up, this will catch any spills or leaks also this is a good way to transfer the food out of the ziplock bag and into the plate to finish off the reheating process.
Remove microwaved bags with caution: remember to place the ziploc on a microwave safe plate before microwaving this makes it easier to get the microwaved food out from the microwave when it’s done. Don’t put face of hand over the opening of a ziploc bag as steam escape can cause burns.
Better alternatives to using ziploc bags in the microwave
Microwave-safe plates or containers are the best for heating food or beverages in the microwave. You can use the plate to cover your food to prevent splattering. Here are some options.
1. Glass containers: Containers made from borosilicate or tempered glass are safe, sturdy, and do not release harmful chemicals. We recommend using Pyrex containers because they can withstand high heat.
2. Ceramic dishes: Ceramic dishes are excellent for evenly heating food. Most ceramic containers are microwave-safe. However, you should not use containers with cracks or chips.
3. Parchment paper: Parchment paper can be used to wrap food before microwaving. You can also use them to prevent splatters without the worry of plastic.
4. Silicon food storage bags: Reusable silicone bags (👈 affiliate link) such as Ziploc endurables are eco-friendly alternatives to the standard ziploc bags. They are safe for microwaves, dishwashers, and even boiling water. These bags can be airtight sealed and used in various settings such as freezing, boiling, or microwaving.
5. Mason jars: Mason jars and other glass jars are not only trendy but are also safe option for storing and microwaving food. However, you should remove the metal lid before microwaving.
FAQs
It is not recommended to microwave other plastic bags if it is not labeled "microwave-safe." It is important to note that different types of plastics have different melting points and chemical compositions. Some plastics release harmful chemicals.
In addition, you should pay attention to the recycling symbols on the plastic bags. Avoid using bags with recycling symbols 3 and 7. This is because they may contain chemicals like phthalates or bisphenol A (BPA), which can potentially leach into food when heated.
Ziploc bags are marketed as being BPA-free. BPA, or Bisphenol A, is a chemical used to produce some plastics. It is worth mentioning that manufacturers have stopped using BPA. However, we recommend checking the packaging or the manufacturer's website for more information.
Don’t use ziplock bags for microwaving oily or high-sugar foods. This is because they can get hotter than water and can cause the bag to melt or warp.
It is also wise to be cautious with foods that tend to splatter, as this can create a mess inside the microwave.
Yes, you can reuse ziplock bags depending on what the first use was. If it’s been used for marinades, storing raw meats or if it’s already been used in a microwave, it’s not recommended that you reuse it as it can lead to cross-contamination.
It’s important to note that each time a ziplock bag is used, it becomes less effective at sealing and protecting the contents.
Thinking of washing and reusing Ziploc Bags
Washing Ziploc bags is an eco-friendly practice that extends the usability of the bags and minimizes waste.
While you can wash and reuse ziploc bags it’s not my favorite thing to do because I find it Cumbersome. However this website isn’t all about me so I’ll share how to wash ziploc bags just incase you want to.
First empty the contents, then rinse the bag under warm water to loosen any residue. Using a soft sponge and some dish soap, gently scrub the inside and outside of the bag including all corners.
After washing, rinse the bags with clean water and shake off the excess. Leave the ziploc bags open and drape them over a dish rack, a clean bottle, or any item that will keep them open to air dry.
See why I find it cumbersome and don’t recommend? To be fair reusing saves you money and helps the planet by reducing plastic waste which is a good enough reason. And if don’t want to, you can simply recycle.
Conclusion and final thoughts
Polyethylene and polypropylene plastics used to make ziploc bags are stable for brief durations when exposed to mild heat. However, these plastics melt or deform when microwaved for too long.
Ziploc bags are highly useful, but it is also important to consider their environmental impact. Since they are made from plastic, they contribute to pollution if not disposed of properly.
According to the manufacturer, it's always good to reuse ziploc bags when possible and recycle them if facilities are available. However, we recommend considering alternatives like glass containers or ceramic dishes in the microwave.
We hope this guide has helped you learn more about microwaving ziptop bags and the other alternatives you can explore.
Enjoyed reading this and want to be the first to know when we hit publish on our next article or recipe? Sign up for our MADD newsletter and get all our yummy microwave recipes and tips straight into your inbox then follow along on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest andTiktok
One more thing! We’d love to help more people, if you found this recipe helpful, please do us a favor and share it with family and friends using the share buttons. Thank you!
Happy Cooking!
Love it? Pin it!
Leave a Reply