Statement: Migration of Dioxins from SC Johnson Microwavable Plastic Products
SC Johnson states that its microwavable plastic products do not migrate dioxins when used in the microwave as directed. The company notes that dioxins form only under extremely high temperatures, far above those reached in household microwaves, and that Ziploc® containers and microwaveable bags meet FDA safety requirements for defrosting and reheating, with Zip’n Steam™ meeting cooking-use requirements.
Key points at a glance
No dioxin migration from SC Johnson microwavable plastics; Ziploc® products are dioxin-free; containers and microwaveable bags meet FDA safety requirements for typical microwave uses when label directions are followed.
Microwave safety & FDA compliance
The statement affirms compliance with FDA requirements for food-contact plastics used at microwave defrost/reheat conditions; FDA regulates food-contact substancesand microwave oven safety standards.
About dioxins
Dioxinsare persistent environmental pollutants formed mainly by certain combustion processes; public-health bodies track and control exposure.
A few years back, concerns were raised about the alleged dangers of using plastics in microwaves. The presumption argued that a combination of fat, high heat and plastic releases dioxin into food and ultimately into the cells of the body, which would then increase the risk of producing cancerous cells. After we researched these claims, it became clear that the information was misleading and unnecessarily alarming.
Dioxins only form when chlorine is combined with extremely high temperatures (such as 1,500 degrees F). The most powerful kitchen microwave oven will never reach this temperature. Even if you reached 1500F (theoretically), all Ziploc® brand products are 100% dioxin-free.
We want you to know that we take very seriously the responsibility of providing products that families can use with confidence, and our Ziploc® products are safe and effective when used as directed. All SC Johnson products are extensively evaluated for toxicity and safety. They comply with -- and often even exceed -- applicable quality and safety regulations.
Importantly, all Ziploc® Containers and microwaveable Ziploc® Bags meet the safety requirements of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for temperatures associated with defrosting and reheating food in microwave ovens, as well as room, refrigerator and freezer temperatures.
In addition, Ziploc® Zip'n Steam™ products meet the safety requirements of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for temperatures associated with cooking food in microwave ovens.
As a family company, nothing is more important to us than the health and safety of the families who use SC Johnson products. That’s why it is so important for us to set the record straight, that when used according to label directions, consumers can continue to use Ziploc® and all SC Johnson products with confidence.