A leading fertility scientist, Dr. Shanna Swan has warned against microwaving food in plastic containers because of its possible effects on fertility.
Dr. Swan, an expert on endocrine disruptors, gave the warning in a podcast.
She highlighted that the development can disrupt hormones and harm reproductive health.
Dr Swan advised people to refrain from using plastic in the microwave, so as to prevent harmful chemicals from seeping into their food.
According to the endocrine expert, chemicals like BPA and phthalates are added to plastics during manufacturing but are not firmly attached, allowing them to escape when heated.
She noted that these chemicals, while making plastics stronger, have been linked to fertility problems in several studies, though regulators maintain that the average person’s exposure levels are considered safe.
Swan expressed concern about how certain chemicals affect reproductive health, particularly by lowering sperm counts and quality in men.
While stating that even leaving a water bottle in a car on a hot day can be harmful, she advised against mixing these chemicals with food, especially in warm settings.
