View topic - Are lunch bags safe for microwaving popcorn?

Author Message Mary

Guest

Huafeng Product Page

Posted: Fri Nov 03, 6:03 pm

 

   Post subject: Are lunch bags safe for microwaving popcorn?

TV chef Alton Brown makes MW-popcorn by putting popcorn+oil+salt in a brown paper lunch bag, and zapping it as usual. This sounds easy and cheap and fun. But I worry that there might be dangerous chemicals in brown paper lunch bags. Any ideas?

kgb

Joined: 21 Dec
Posts: 108

Posted: Fri Nov 03, 9:32 pm

 

   Post subject: They're fine

Paper lunch bags are already meant to come in contact with foods, hot or cold. If they contained anything toxic, the FDA would already have sounded the alarm about their intended use. Alton's use is not that far off -- the only difference is that the heat is maintained for a few minutes in the microwave -- they should be perfectly safe.

Gabrielle

Joined: 27 Oct
Posts: 5

Posted: Sat Nov 04, 12:15 am

 

   Post subject:

There is no problem with using the paper bags. I would, however, not use recycled ones.

Guest

Posted: Sun Nov 05, 6:10 pm

 

   Post subject:

Thanks for your replies. They gave me courage to try it last night, and it worked great!

GaryProtein

Joined: 26 Oct
Posts: 535

Posted: Sat Nov 11, 1:58 pm

 

   Post subject:

I wouldn't use a pastic bag because it would lock the steam in making tough popcorn.

Guest

Posted: Sat Nov 11, 9:40 pm

 

   Post subject:

Plus I'd be afraid that plastic would melt, or give off toxic fumes, when heated.

I've settled on paper lunch bags (labeled as such) with the open end folded over twice. I've tried (1) plain popcorn, (2) popcorn with oil, (3) popcorn with oil and salt, (4) plain popcorn in a bag with holes, and (5) popcorn with oil in a bag with holes. (The holes were punched with a standard paper punch).

The lightest, fluffiest was (5). It came out even better than popcorn popped on the stove in a pot with oil.

GaryProtein

Joined: 26 Oct
Posts: 535

Posted: Fri Nov 17, 11:31 pm

 

   Post subject:

When you make popcorn on the stove, NEVER cover the pot with anything but a screen type pot cover. A collander upside down covering the pot is also fine. The steam MUST be allowed to escape unimpeded. The steam is what makes popcorn tough.

LoraA444

Joined: 07 Jan
Posts: 1
Location: Bethel, CT

Posted: Sun Jan 07, 7:32 pm

 

   Post subject:

I always use the brown bags for popped corn. Yummy!

kim

Guest

Posted: Mon Feb 12, 6:36 am

 

   Post subject: Here is an article about pot. hazard fr. microwave popcorn

Check it out here - there is a chemical used to make butter flavoring called diacetyl that releases toxic fumes when heated and has "completely destroyed the lungs" of popcorn factory workers. No one knows if it is dangerous on the consumer level since the FDA won't investigate the issue and the EPA is limiting the release of their information to flavor manufacturers (personally, I don't think they should be allowed to withhold any information - tax dollars fund the studies which I do think should be done, but all information should be made public).

kim

Guest

Posted: Mon Feb 12, 6:39 am

 

   Post subject:

as for the paper bag leaching chemicals, i'd imagine unbleached would be better as the aforementioned article suggests. really not sure about potential chemicals in paper or if recycled versus non recycled would be better. haven't come across literature on that yet. you might also consider the glue they use on the paper, though i'd imagine they'd use something as non toxic as elmer's. but you never know.

Are you interested in learning more about microwavable paper bag? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!

pilot guy

Guest

Posted: Thu Mar 20, 12:46 am

 

   Post subject: Re: Here is an article about pot. hazard fr. microwave popco

Check it out here - there is a chemical used to make butter flavoring called diacetyl that releases toxic fumes when heated and has "completely destroyed the lungs" of popcorn factory workers. No one knows if it is dangerous on the consumer level since the FDA won't investigate the issue and the EPA is limiting the release of their information to flavor manufacturers (personally, I don't think they should be allowed to withhold any information - tax dollars fund the studies which I do think should be done, but all information should be made public).

Just about any oil that is aerosolized will cause serious lung problems, so I doubt it is just the result of the chemical. Haven't you ever heard of lipoid pneumonia for example.

IndyRob

Joined: 17 Dec
Posts: 77

Posted: Fri Apr 11, 11:56 pm

 

   Post subject:

.

I'm a big fan of AB, and have tried the microwave lunch bag trick. But IMHO, pop your corn in a pan with coconut oil. It's still not healthy, but a far more pleasant way to die

JulieB

Joined: 30 Oct
Posts: 8

Posted: Sun Oct 30, 3:39 pm

 

   Post subject:

Here's another thought for a quick toasted cheese sandwich, to avoid the grill. . .not the same, but less the fat. Toast bread, make cheese sandwich, place in lunch bag, heat very quickly. . .about 2 seconds. Will depend on your microwave. Not like Grama used to make, but it's a warm Office Special alternative in crunch time.

livinlargeinthesun

Joined: 04 Nov
Posts: 1

Posted: Fri Nov 04, 2:19 pm

 

   Post subject:

I have never heard of popping popcorn this way. I will definitely have to try it. Thanks!

Dude111

Joined: 23 Sep
Posts: 142

Posted: Tue Nov 08, 8:39 am

 

   Post subject:

Welcome.....

I dont see why they wouldnt be OK..

Display posts from previous:   

What happens when you put a paper bag in the microwave? Is it harmful to food or is there a risk of fire or explosion? Although convenient, but paper bags are not recommended to use with microwave. In today article, discover the reasons what can happen and why you should not microwaving paper bags.

What Will Happen If You Put a Paper Bag in Microwave?

Paper bags are a familiar sight in our lives. They're a handy and eco-friendly way to carry groceries, pack lunches, or even hold popcorn for a movie night. Their versatility makes them a go-to option for many everyday tasks. However, it&#;s not safe to put a paper bag in microwave.  

Microwaves offer a quick and convenient way to heat up food. But the intense heat generated inside the appliance presents a significant risk when combined with paper bags. Unlike containers designed specifically for microwaves, regular paper bags simply aren't built to handle those high temperatures.

Microwaving a paper bag can lead to several potential hazards:

• Fire Risk: The biggest concern is the risk of fire. Paper bags are not designed to withstand the intense heat generated by microwaves. As the paper heats up, it can dry out, start to smoke, and eventually ignite. A fire in your microwave can not only damage the appliance but also pose a serious safety threat to your kitchen.
• Fumes and Toxins: When paper is exposed to high temperatures, it can break down and release harmful fumes and toxins. These fumes can contaminate your food, making it unsafe to eat. Additionally, inhaling these fumes can be irritating to your lungs and potentially harmful to your health.

Why Paper Bags Are Not Suitable with Microwave?

While the dangers of microwaving paper bags are clear, understanding the science behind these risks can further solidify the importance of safe food handling practices. Here's a closer look at the specific materials and properties of paper bags that make them incompatible with the intense heat environment of a microwave:

Material Composition

• Regular paper bags are primarily composed of cellulose fibers. Cellulose is a naturally occurring organic polymer, the main building block of plant cell walls. While cellulose offers several desirable properties like strength and biodegradability, it also has a significant downside &#; it's highly flammable.
• Under high temperatures, like those generated by a microwave, cellulose fibers can readily undergo a process called thermal decomposition. During this process, the cellulose breaks down, releasing heat and volatile gases. If the temperature continues to rise, these gases can ignite, leading to a fire.

Lack of Heat Dissipation

Unlike microwave-safe containers like glass or ceramic, paper bags are poor conductors of heat. This means they don't efficiently distribute the heat waves generated by the microwave throughout the material. Instead, the heat tends to concentrate in specific areas, creating localized hotspots within the bag. These hotspots can reach temperatures far exceeding the average temperature inside the microwave, significantly increasing the risk of fire.

Unpredictable Content

• The potential dangers of microwaving paper bags extend beyond the paper itself. During the manufacturing process, some paper bags might contain trace amounts of chemicals, inks, or dyes used for printing or strengthening the material.
• While these additives are generally safe under normal conditions, exposure to high temperatures in a microwave can cause them to break down and release harmful fumes. These fumes can not only contaminate your food, making it unsafe to eat, but can also be irritating or even hazardous if inhaled.

Alternatives to microwaving with paper bags

Since paper bags pose a significant safety risk in the microwave, it's crucial to explore alternative methods for heating your food. Below are some safe and effective options.

Microwave-safe containers

This is the gold standard for safe and efficient microwave heating. Invest in a set of microwave-safe containers made from glass, ceramic, or certain types of plastic. These materials are specifically designed to withstand high temperatures and distribute heat evenly throughout the food.

Benefits:

• Ensures even cooking and prevents hot spots that could burn your food.
• Reduces the risk of fire or harmful fumes being released.
• Comes in various sizes and shapes to accommodate different food items.

Tips:

• Look for containers with the microwave-safe symbol on the label.
• Avoid using plastic containers with cracks or scratches.
• Consider investing in containers with lids for reheating leftovers or storing food.

Transfer food to a plate

If you find yourself needing to heat food that came in a paper bag, don't microwave it directly. Here's a safe alternative:

Process: Carefully transfer the food from the paper bag to a microwave-safe plate.

Benefits:

• Removes the fire and fume risk associated with paper bags.
• Allows for even heating of your food.

Tips:

• Choose a plate large enough to hold the food comfortably.
• Avoid using plates with metallic patterns or trims, as they can spark in the microwave.
• Ensure the plate is clean and free of cracks or chips.

Opt for a Different Container from the Start

When packing lunches or preparing snacks, consider using reusable containers specifically designed for microwave use. These containers come in various shapes and sizes, allowing you to portion and store food conveniently. They offer:

• Safety and Convenience: They are safe for microwaving and eliminate the need to transfer food later.
• Durability: Reusable containers are a sustainable option that reduces reliance on disposable paper bags.
• Versatility: Many can be used for storage in the refrigerator or freezer and then reheated in the microwave.

By prioritizing safety and choosing proper alternatives, you can ditch the paper bag in the microwave and enjoy safe and efficient food heating. Remember, your health and safety are always worth the extra effort of using a microwave-safe container.

Conclusion

In conclusion, while paper bags offer convenience for carrying food, they pose a significant risk when used in the microwave. By understanding the dangers and embracing safe alternatives like microwave-safe containers or transferring food to plates, you can ensure your meals are heated safely and efficiently.

The company is the world’s best food grade paper bag exporter supplier. We are your one-stop shop for all needs. Our staff are highly-specialized and will help you find the product you need.