While most of us probably use Ziploc bags often for freezer storage or bringing snacks on the go, some may wonder whether or not you can also use these bags to heat up your food.
There are many restrictions on what can go in the microwave, and the last thing people want is something toxic to melt into their food. Are Ziploc bags microwave-safe?
We’ve put together a guide to help you understand how to heat up your Ziploc bags in a way that is safe and easy.
Table Of Contents:
Can You Microwave Ziploc Bags?
The simple answer is yes, but it depends on the type of bag. According to the Ziploc website, it is safe to microwave their freezer storage bags. Their website points out that the microwave will never reach temperatures high enough for it to become unsafe to microwave their products.
Their bags are also free of dioxin, a chemical that could be harmful when exposed to high temperatures.
However, it is not recommended for smaller sandwich bags. Their website explicitly states “Not recommended for use in microwave or for storage of liquids,” so be sure to check the label first. Most of their bags are able to be used in the microwave to heat up food, but it is always better to be safe than sorry.
Ziploc Bags That Can Be Microwaved:
● Ziploc Freezer Bags – These classic bags are perfect for microwaving food.
● Ziploc Endurables – These bags are made of reusable silicone that allows for them to be frozen, baked, boiled, and microwaved.
● Ziploc Containers – These leakproof containers are able to be microwaved and are perfect for leftovers.
● Ziploc Slider Freezer Bags – Some customers prefer the more secure zipper for a tighter closure.
Ziploc Bags to Avoid Putting in the Microwave:
● Sandwich Bags – This design is perfect for packing snacks or sandwiches in a lunch, but Ziploc does not recommend you microwave them.
● Snack Bags – These are identical to the sandwich bag, but smaller in size. Perfect for pretzels or small items!
Keep in mind that this is according to the Ziploc official brand, so you want to be careful of off-brand products, as they may be created using cheaper or more harmful materials.
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How Long Can You Microwave a Ziploc Bag?
As mentioned above, microwaving a Ziploc bag is completely okay to do because the microwave will never reach temperatures high enough for it to be harmful to you. However, to avoid your Ziploc bag becoming too hot to handle, it may be best to only microwave in 30-second intervals.
This way, you can keep an eye on it and be sure that the steam created inside does not cause your bag to overheat.
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How Do You Microwave a Ziploc Bag?
The safest first step when microwaving a Ziploc bag is to check the directions on the package because the answer may differ depending on what type of bag you’re using. Sandwich bags, as mentioned above, are not intended to be used in the microwave, while Freezer Gallon bags are.
To safely microwave your bag, place it on a microwave-safe plate and leave a small opening to allow for ventilation (Ziploc recommends opening the slit by at least an inch).
Then, set your microwave for the amount of time you need to heat your food.
Pause every 30 seconds or so in order to keep an eye on your food and make sure it does not heat up too quickly or unevenly.
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What is The Maximum Temperature a Ziploc Bag Can Take?
Ziploc uses polypropylene to make their bags because it allows their bags to easily be recycled. Polypropylene will begin to soften at 195 degrees, so it is important to keep your Ziploc bags in temperatures below that.
As mentioned before, we suggest microwaving in 30-second intervals so that you can keep an eye on how hot your bag (and the delicious food inside) is getting.
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Can Ziploc Bags Be Boiled?
Now, you may be wondering if you can boil a Ziploc bag. After all, it would be much easier to clean up, and who doesn’t want that? While research is mixed on this topic, we do not recommend it, as it is not on the list of suggested uses on the Ziploc website.
They specifically warn to “not overheat contents as bag may melt.” Water boils at 212 degrees, which is slightly above the melting point of the materials used to create Ziploc bags.
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Conclusion
So overall, if you’re looking for a quick and easy way to heat up your vegetables or reheat those leftovers from the night before, go for it! Ziploc exists because they want to make your life easier. They’ve designed their bags knowing that people around the world want to be able to heat up their food without having a big mess to clean up after.
Just make sure to put it on a microwave-safe plate and be careful when removing it from the microwave. No meal is worth burning your fingers.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Can you microwave Ziploc Tupperware?
Yes! Again, be sure to read the directions provided on the packaging, but the Tupperware containers are safe to use in the microwave. We recommend using an oven mitt to remove it, as the material may be hot to the touch when your food is ready.
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Can you microwave Ziploc Containers?
The answer again is yes! Ziploc creates its products in order to make your life easier, so feel free to pop those containers into the microwave when you need a quick reheat with less mess.
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Is it ok to reuse Ziploc bags in the microwave?
Yes! Always be sure to check for wear and tear. You don’t want to reuse a bag that’s been spread too thin or has a broken zipper, but it is okay to reuse Ziploc bags in the microwave.
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What type of plastic is a Ziploc bag?
Ziploc bags are made out of polypropylene.
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Are Ziploc bags chemical-free?
According to the official Ziploc website, they are BPA-free and contain no dioxin. All of their products meet the approval requirements from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.
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What other bags can you use in the microwave?
This may surprise you, but Ziploc actually creates bags intended for the microwave! Their Zip’N Steam Cooking Bags are specifically made with vents so that you can easily steam vegetables, potatoes, fish, or chicken in minutes. Unlike regular Ziploc bags, this one can be used in order to cook raw food. You can have a quick and easy meal without ever having to turn on the stove.
It is important to note, however, that steam can quickly reach high temperatures, so you want to make sure you allow it to cool first and always open the bag away from your face.
If you’re looking to try out some options other than Ziploc, Stasher Reusable Silicone Food Storage Bags are also microwave-safe. This company was founded with the goal to reduce single-use plastics in the world, so they are also doing their part to make our lives easier while also helping the planet.
Shanny
Shanny not only has an exceptional understanding of the foodie mindset and how nutrition works, she has also achieved her Master’s Degree in Education. Outside of her academic achievements, she loves writing food blogs. It's so much more than a list of meals though! Shanny creates helpful cookware guides and delicious recipes that are easy to follow. She does all of this as a food blog writer because she loves it. That's why she spends lots of time testing out different recipes in her own home. She truly is a one-of-a-kind foodie, from her home to yours - with a story to tell, new recipes to indulge in and new tips to tantalize those tastebuds.
