Yes, you can. Mason jars can be used in the microwave as long as they are heated for too long.
Nonetheless, this could be tricky because you must make use of jars specifically made for heating. Originally, glass isn’t made for heating. Also, you shouldn’t heat it for too long; otherwise, it could break.
Ahead, this article answers your questions on the possibility of putting mason jars in a microwave. Also, you’ll get to all the in-between details for safety.
What is a Mason jar?
Mason jars were named after American tinsmith John Landis Mason. They are large top-mouthed glass jars with a hermetic screw-top, used for conserving fruit and vegetables.
A metal ring or “band” is pressed against the jar’s rim when a separate stamped steel disc-shaped lid is screwed down against the jar’s mouth.
Can you microwave food in Mason jars?
Mason jars are not 100% microwave-safe. However, newer models carry the microwave-safe symbol. Regardless, they are made from glass and glass does not conduct microwaves well.
If you must microwave food in mason jars, you must be sure the jars are microwave-safe. Also, do not heat it for too long.
In addition, the lids of mason jars are not microwave-safe. Therefore, when microwaving food in mason jars, ensure you take off the lids.
To be safe, use microwave-safe wares to warm your food.
How long can you microwave a Mason jar?
Although it is not advisable, if you insist on microwaving food in mason jars, do not put it in a microwave for more than five minutes. Otherwise, you risk losing your glass.
How do you know if your Mason jar is microwave safe?
Generally, mason jars are not microwavable. Older designs do not have a microwave-safe symbol, so it’s hard to tell. But some of the newer designs have the microwave-safe symbol.
Additionally, to preserve your jars, remove the lids from the jars before microwaving them
Tips for using Mason jars in a microwave
- Place jars on a rack in the canner so they don’t touch the bottom of the canner to avoid dents
- Do not place cold jars in hot water. Always slowly heat-filled jars to a simmer in hot water (180°F/82°C) before placing them in the pressure canner.
- Do not place the hot jar on a cool or wet surface
- If you use your jar to microwave often, you may have to start using metal knives or spatulas to remove air bubbles or steel wool pads to clean jars
- Avoid using old jars
- Do not place hot food in cold jars
- If you desire to continue using your jars to microwave, get the new masons jar and test by immersing them in room-temperature water, bringing them to a boil, and boiling them for 15 minutes.
- Remove the lids before you put the jars in the microwave
- Do not overfill the jars
How to maintain your mason jar
- Mason jars are breakable, so you should handle them carefully
- Arrange the jars so that the lids do not rust
- Always keep your jars clean and dry
FAQs
At what temperature will mason jars break?
Mason jars will shatter if they are exposed to temperatures above 90°F.
Are mason jars dishwasher safe?
Yes, they are but you can also wash mason jars with your hands, which is the best care for them. These glasswares are fragile and will crack under the slightest pressure. To avoid damaging the lids, we suggest handwashing only.
Can you microwave frozen food in mason jars?
No, you should not. Generally, it is not safe to microwave food in mason jars and this includes frozen food.
Allow your food to thaw and microwave for five minutes in a mason jar. You can also transfer the food to a microwave-safe plate before microwaving.
Can you recycle mason jars?
Yes. you can. Do not recycle mason jars with their lids or other recyclables. Instead of recycling your jars, you can use them for other purposes like decorative or storage purposes.
Conclusion
Mason jars serve a lot of purposes. But this does not include microwaving. The glass these jars are made from cannot withstand microwaves.
However, if you must microwave food in mason jars, do not exceed five minutes. Also, do not microwave the jars with the lids on them. Most importantly, keep your jars well.
Thank you for reading.
If you loved reading this article, learn about microwaving Ziploc bags.
