Anses warns of chemical migration from microwaveable packaging

The French Agency for Food, Environmental and Occupational Health & Safety (Anses) has highlighted risks regarding the migration of chemical substances from food packaging into meals during microwave heating.

Recent studies analyzed various materials used in ready-to-eat meals, noting that polypropylene is widely utilized. Anses detected migrating substances, specifically lubricants known as POSH, and observed that their presence in food increases when heating is conducted at high power or for extended durations.

While not all plastics are inherently dangerous, the agency emphasizes that usage methods significantly influence the probability of chemical transfer. To mitigate risks, Anses recommends strictly following manufacturer instructions and, in the absence of specific guidance, opting for lower power settings with adapted heating times rather than maximum power.