Can heating food in plastic containers transfer chemicals?
Yes. A 2026 Food Chemistry study found chemicals transferred from plastic food-contact materials into food, and several compounds increased after microwave or oven cooking.
What's actually in it
Plastic food containers and trays can contain plasticizers, antioxidants, hydrocarbons, and non-intentionally added substances. These can move from packaging into food.
Heat matters. Microwave cooking, oven cooking, oily foods, and long contact time can all change how much transfers.
What the research says
A 2026 study in Food Chemistry tested 6 foods before and after cooking in plastic packaging. Researchers also tested the plastic containers.
They tentatively identified 35 intentionally added substances and 3 non-intentionally added substances. Several compounds transferred just from contact, and some increased after cooking.
The study also found that some chemicals only transferred during cooking, including diisodecyl phthalate and other compounds. Low-density polyethylene packaging showed more transferred plasticizers than some other packaging types.
What to do at home
Move food to glass containers or ceramic plates before heating. Use glass storage for leftovers, especially warm, oily, or acidic foods.