Is it safe to use plastic measuring cups for hot ingredients?
Based on 1 peer-reviewed studykitchen
Verdict: Avoid
No. Hot oil, hot water, and hot milk all pull chemicals out of plastic measuring cups.
What's actually in it
Plastic measuring cups (polypropylene or polystyrene) handle dry and cold ingredients fine. Hot liquids are a different story: they soften the plastic at the molecular level and speed additive release. Hot oil is the worst because fat pulls more than water.
What the research says
A 2025 study in J Agric Food Chem showed polypropylene releases billions of nanoplastic particles in hot water. Hot fat is worse.
Use Pyrex glass measuring cups for hot liquids and any oil. Keep plastic ones for cold and dry use.
The research at a glance
| Study | Journal | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Release of Nanoplastics from Polypropylene Food Containers. | J Agric Food Chem | 2025 |
What to use instead
Browse our vetted, non-toxic alternatives. Every product is third-party certified.
Shop Non-Toxic Kitchen