Snaplock by Progressive is a popular brand of storage containers that are designed to be microwave safe. These containers have snap-lock lids that create an airtight seal to lock in freshness. Many people use these containers to store and reheat leftovers in the microwave. However, some may wonder if these containers are truly microwave safe and if there are any risks associated with microwaving them. In this article, we’ll explore whether Snaplock containers are microwave safe, look at the pros and cons, and provide tips for safe microwave use.
Are Snaplock Containers Microwave Safe?
According to Progressive, their Snaplock storage containers are microwave safe. The containers are made from polypropylene plastic which is microwave safe. Polypropylene is a common plastic used to make microwave-safe containers because it can withstand high temperatures without leaching chemicals or melting.
Progressive states that their Snaplock containers will not warp, crack, or melt in the microwave as long as they are used properly according to instructions. The lids are also made from polypropylene plastic and have a silicone seal, both microwave-safe materials.
So yes, Snaplock containers are advertised as microwave safe by the manufacturer Progressive. However, there are some caveats and proper usage instructions to follow.
Microwave Safety Tips for Snaplock Containers
While Snaplock containers are microwave safe, Progressive recommends the following guidelines for safe microwave use:
- Do not microwave empty containers or containers with little food
- Do not microwave containers with tight fitting lids. Always leave lid slightly open to vent steam.
- Do not microwave for more than 3-4 minutes at one time.
- Allow proper standing time before removing container.
- Use lower power levels for longer cook times.
- Never microwave components made of glass, metal, or gold plastic.
Following these simple rules will prevent the buildup of excessive steam and pressure which can lead containers to warp, melt, or break.
The Pros of Microwaving Snaplock
There are several benefits to microwaving food in Snaplock containers:
- Convenience – being able to store leftovers and reheat them in the same dish saves time and extra dishes.
- Maintains moisture and texture – food reheated in a covered container tends to retain more moisture compared to reheating on a plate.
- No mess – the airtight seal contains splatters and prevents food from drying out.
- Containment – snaplock lids form a tight seal keeping food secure inside the container during the jostling of microwave heating.
- Freezer to microwave safe – Snaplock containers can go straight from freezer to microwave for easy reheating.
- BPA-free – Snaplock containers are made from BPA-free plastic for safety.
For those who use their microwaves frequently for reheating leftovers, Snaplock containers are convenient, effective, and safe when used properly.
Potential Cons of Microwaving in Snaplock
Despite being advertised as microwave safe, there are some potential downsides to consider:
- Can still melt if microwaved while empty or with low food content.
- May still warp slightly over time with repeated microwaving.
- Not recommended for prolonged microwaving longer than 3-4 minutes.
- Requires venting lids properly – improper venting can lead to a blown off lid.
- May retain heat and continue cooking food after removed from microwave.
- Plastic odors or tastes may leach into food in some cases.
- Old, scratched, or stained containers may not be as microwave safe.
While rare if instructions are followed properly, there is still a small possibility for melted or warped containers. And some people may prefer to avoid microwaving plastic altogether.
Microwave Power Levels
One way to reduce any risks of overheating Snaplock containers is to use lower microwave power levels. Here is an overview of common microwave power levels:
| Power Level | Percentage |
|---|---|
| High (default setting) | 100% (full power) |
| 7 or Medium-High | 70% |
| 6 or Medium | 60% |
| 5 or Medium-Low | 50% |
| 4 or Low | 40% |
| 3 | 30% |
| 2 | 20% |
| 1 | 10% |
Microwaving at lower power levels takes longer but distributes heat more gently and evenly. This can help prevent overheating issues. For example, microwaving a bowl of soup for 3 minutes on high can be done for 5-6 minutes at a medium power instead.
Refer to your microwave manual for specific instructions on setting power levels. If no power levels are available, just use shorter cooking times per interval.
Alternative Microwave-Safe Containers
If you prefer not to microwave plastic at all, there are other microwave-safe container options including:
- Glass containers – Glass is microwave safe. Choose ones made of tempered glass and avoid any with metallic paint or details.
- Ceramic bowls or mugs – Make sure they are marked “microwave safe.” Unglazed ceramic can absorb moisture and crack.
- Silicone containers – 100% food grade silicone is microwave safe. Check labels to ensure no plastic fillers are added.
- Microwave-safe paper plates – These won’t retain heat as well but let excess moisture vent.
Just be sure to follow any special instructions provided with dishes and remove metallic lids or wrapping before microwaving.
Signs of an Unsafe Microwave Container
Here are some signs that a container may not be microwave safe:
- Sparking, arcing, or popping sounds.
- Plastic or silicone feels very hot to the touch.
- Bubbling, warping, or melting plastic.
- Food that continues cooking after removed.
- Plastic taste or smell leaching into food.
- Black or brown scorch marks.
Stop microwaving immediately if you notice any of these warning signs and do not reuse the container.
How to Test if a Container is Microwave Safe
If you are ever unsure if a container is microwave safe, you can perform this simple test:
- Fill the empty container with 1 cup of water.
- Microwave on HIGH for 1 minute.
- Carefully feel the container – it should be slightly warm but not too hot to touch.
- Inspect the container and water – it should not be warped, melted, or bubbly.
- If the container passed these inspection steps, it should be safe for microwave use.
However, to be 100% certain, it’s best to check manufacturer guidelines or stick to containers specifically labeled as microwave safe.
Guidelines for Safely Reheating Food in Microwaves
Follow these tips whenever you reheat food in the microwave:
- Use microwave-safe containers suitable for the food type and portion size.
- Arrange food in a ring around the outer edge of the dish – this promotes even heating.
- Cover foods with a lid or microwave-safe paper towel to retain moisture.
- Stir, rotate, and/or flip food at least once during cooking.
- Allow a standing time after cooking for heat to finish distributing.
- Check food’s internal temperature using a food thermometer to ensure it is fully heated through.
- Heat small portions to limit cooking time needed.
- Adjust cook times and power levels based on food type and quantity.
Taking these precautions will lead to properly reheated, safe food every time.
Conclusion
Snaplock containers by Progressive are advertised as microwave safe when used properly according to the manufacturer’s instructions. The plastic is BPA-free and rated for high temperatures. However, there is still a small risk of warping, melting, or leaching chemicals if misused.
To be cautious, use lower microwave power levels, always vent lids, and limit heating times. Glass, ceramic, or silicone containers may also be used instead of plastic. With responsible use, Snaplock containers can provide a quick, convenient way to reheat leftovers while helping food retain moisture and flavor. Just be sure to follow recommendations for microwave safety and be alert for any signs of problems with the containers during heating.