Is It Safe to Microwave Tupperware

The Short Answer

It depends on the specific Tupperware product. Some Tupperware containers are microwave-safe; others are not. The key is to check the bottom of the container for the microwave-safe symbol. Tupperware has updated its product lines over the years, and older containers may not meet current microwave-safety standards.

How to Tell If Your Tupperware Is Microwave-Safe

Check the Bottom of the Container

Look at the bottom of your Tupperware container for one of these indicators:

• Microwave-safe symbol: Wavy lines (representing microwave radiation), sometimes with a microwave oven icon. This means the container has been tested and approved for microwave use.
• "Microwave Safe" text: Some containers are explicitly labeled in text.
• A crossed-out microwave symbol: This means the container is NOT microwave-safe.

Check the Recycling Number

Tupperware containers labeled with recycling number #5 (PP — polypropylene) are generally the safest for microwave use. Polypropylene is heat-resistant and doesn't leach chemicals at microwave temperatures when properly formulated.

Tupperware's Official Position

Tupperware states that products with the microwave-safe symbol on the bottom are safe for microwave use. Products without this symbol should not be microwaved. Tupperware also recommends:

• Leaving the lid slightly open or vented when microwaving to allow steam to escape
• Not microwaving fatty or sugary foods at high temperatures in plastic containers
• Not using containers that are warped, cracked, or discolored

Older Tupperware: Extra Caution Needed

Tupperware products made before the 2010s may contain BPA (bisphenol A) or other plasticizers that can leach into food when heated. If you have older Tupperware without a clear microwave-safe label, it's best to transfer food to a glass container for microwaving.

Best Practice: Use Glass Instead

Even with microwave-safe Tupperware, glass containers are a safer and more reliable choice for microwave cooking. Glass doesn't leach any chemicals, lasts longer, and is easier to clean.

We recommend: M MCIRCO 10-Pack 22 Oz Glass Meal Prep Containers with Lids

Microwave-Safe Tupperware: Usage Rules

• Always vent the lid — never seal tightly when microwaving
• Don't microwave fatty or sugary foods at high power for extended periods
• Don't use containers that are warped, scratched, or discolored
• Don't microwave in containers without the microwave-safe symbol
• Let food cool slightly before transferring to Tupperware if it's very hot

What to Avoid

• Don't microwave Tupperware without the microwave-safe symbol
• Don't microwave old or damaged Tupperware
• Don't seal lids tightly — always vent
• Don't assume all Tupperware is microwave-safe — check every container individually

Final Thoughts

Some Tupperware is microwave-safe — but you must check the bottom of each container for the microwave-safe symbol. When in doubt, use glass. Glass is always safe, never leaches chemicals, and is the most reliable choice for microwave cooking and reheating.