How to know if your plastic container is microwave safe here in Kenya
Many of us use plastic containers to reheat food in the microwave. Before using any plastic container to reheat your food, it’s important to first know whether the container is microwave safe.
Using containers not suited for the microwave may lead to the release of toxic chemicals. It goes without saying that none of us want to ingest toxic chemicals with our food. The plastic container may also lack enough heat resistance which may lead to it melting inside the microwave.
Plastic container manufacturers label their containers with certain symbols to help the user easily determine the specific purposes that the container can be used for. They also include a symbol for the type of material the plastic container is made of.
Let’s go over the different symbols that you’re likely to encounter when using plastic containers in Kenya. These symbols can be found at the bottom of the specific plastic container you’re using. Some containers have the manufacturer symbols on the inner side so check there if you don’t see them on the outer side.
Mircorwave safe symbols you'll find on plastic containers
If you find these wavy symbols imprinted on your plastic containers, you can rest assured that they can be used for reheating food in the microwave.
Other symbols you are likely to come across on food containers here in Kenya
Aside from the microwave-safe symbols, below are other common symbols you’ll find on plastic containers here in Kenya.
Food safe symbol
The food-safe symbol is a wine glass and fork outline. A container with the food-safe symbol will not transfer non-food chemicals into the food. It also doesn’t contain any chemicals that would be hazardous to human health.
Resin identification code symbol
The resin identification code appears on plastic containers as arrows that cycle clockwise to form a triangle that encloses a number. The number indicates the type of plastic resin the container is made out of.
Most microwave-safe containers are made from Polypropylene with is identified by a triangle with a 5 inside and the letters PP at the bottom. PP has a high melting point hence why it’s used to make microwave-safe containers.
Freezer safe symbol
The freezer-safe symbol resembles a snowflake. Containers with this symbol can be used in the freezer without worrying about freezer damage.
KEBS Standardization Mark
The KEBS standardization mark is a mandatory product certification issued to local manufacturers to certify that a specific product has been vetted by the Kenya Bureau of Standards.
Which are the best microwave safe containers here in Kenya?
The best containers to use in your microwave are glass containers. Glass does not stain or retain odors. It also won’t transfer potentially hazardous chemicals into your food when microwaving.
Go for a rectangular-shaped glass container as opposed to a circular one to save space in your fridge or drawer.