No. A microwave-safe label does not mean the container is plastic-free. It describes whether the maker intends that product for microwave use. Read the material list and the maker's care instructions separately, and use only containers marked for the way you plan to heat or store food.
Microwave-safe is a use label, not a material label. A product may meet a maker’s microwave-use instructions and still contain plastic parts. The FDA says plastic tableware that does not specify microwave safety should not be used to heat foods and drinks. Read the FDA’s melamine tableware guidance and the product’s own care label.
Read the whole container
| Part | What to check |
|---|---|
| Body | Material and any microwave-use statement |
| Lid | Whether the lid can be heated or must be removed |
| Seal or gasket | Material and care directions |
| Food contact | What types of food and temperatures the maker describes |
| Wear | Cracks, warping or damaged surfaces covered by maker guidance |
Before heating
- Find the product’s manual or care page, not only the retail listing.
- Check the body, lid and seal separately. They may have different instructions.
- Use a different container if the maker does not describe microwave use.
- Remove the lid or vent it only when the product instructions say to do so.
- Keep food storage questions separate from heating instructions.
Our stainless steel microwave label checklist and food-contact label buying checklist help you compare the details. Browse kitchen products.
Common questions
Does microwave-safe mean a container has no plastic?
No. The claim concerns a product's microwave use. Check the material list to see what the body, lid and seal are made from.
Can I microwave a plastic food container without a label?
Follow the maker's instructions. The FDA says plastic tableware without a microwave-safe statement should not be used to heat food or drinks.
Can I put a stainless steel container in a microwave?
Check the appliance manual and the container maker's instructions. Do not assume a product is suitable based only on its material.
Does BPA-free mean microwave-safe?
No. BPA-free and microwave-safe describe different product information. See our guide to [what BPA-free means](/guides/does-bpa-free-mean-plastic-free).