10 Things you should never put in a Microwave Oven

Many of us frequently use the microwave oven, a handy kitchen tool, for speedy cooking and reheating. Although the microwave works wonders for many dishes and beverages, not everything can be heated up there. Below are the ten items that you should never microwave to protect your device and any potential safety risks.

Metal Objects

It would be best if you never put anything in your microwave that is made of or contains steel, iron, copper, or any other hard metal. Microwaves are reflected off of metal surfaces, which raises the temperature inside the equipment and may cause a fire. Take out the meal and transfer it to a microwave-safe container if you’re preserving leftovers in a metal container. Some examples are given below

• Aluminum foil
• Metal or stainless steel
• Single Use Plastic
• Takeout containers
• Utensils and Cutlery

Eggs in their shells

It is risky and untidy to microwave an entire egg in its shell. The egg may explode into an oozy mass due to the excessive steam produced by the quick heating process. Thus, please refrain from attempting to cook hard-boiled eggs in a microwave, despite what the internet claims.

Styrofoam

In addition to being harmful to the environment, Styrofoam, commonly known as polystyrene foam, melts rapidly when exposed to radiation. This can leak hazardous chemicals into your food, much like plastic, and possibly result in chronic ailments.

Plastic Containers

Microwaving plastic bags and containers, such as yogurt tubs, is not recommended due to the possibility of BPA (bisphenol A) contamination. These components are easily melted inside the device, releasing BPA into your food, which has been connected in studies to several health problems.

Grapes

This is one that you have probably never considered, although hardly many people choose to microwave their grapes, these tiny berries have the potential to blow up or catch fire in a microwave oven. According to Rogers, microwave cooking produces plasma that can cause grapes to produce smoke or even explode.

Hot Peppers

Not only do hot (spicy) peppers have a strong flavor, but they can catch fire in a microwave and explode at high temperatures. Additionally, it releases capsaicin, the spicy spice’s active element, into the air, which can burn your throat or sting your eyes if inhaled. Red peppers are the finest prepared on the grill or pan-seared in one of the greatest cast iron skillets.

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Paper Bags

Paper bags can easily catch fire since they are not made to withstand the heat of a microwave. Furthermore, when heated, they have the potential to produce fumes and poisons. Certain paper bags are constructed with susceptors that can absorb microwaves to make them safe to use in a microwave.

Insulated Travel Mug

Steel components are frequently used to make insulated travel mugs. Since this is made of metal, it should never come into contact with the microwave’s inside. If fortune favors you and you realize in time, you will only ignite a small number of sparks. If not, there is a significant chance of an explosion or fire.

Frozen Meat

We’ve inevitably all neglected to remove the meat from the freezer, but heating it in the microwave is not the answer! Proteins that have been frozen may cook unevenly in the microwave or potentially develop and spread harmful microorganisms. If necessary, thaw your protein in the microwave before finishing the cooking process on an oven, stovetop, or grill before eating.

Clothing

It may seem sensible to fast dry your clothes in the microwave if you’re in a hurry. An electrical fire can be started by wet or moist clothing in an electrical appliance. Furthermore, hot spots can form and burn through the material even if the items are entirely dry. A fire may then result from this as well.

Microwave Oven Safety Tips

Here are some important safety tips and tricks for Microwave Oven usage you should follow.

• Use Microwave safe containers
• Monitor your cooking
• Ventilate food
• Avoid running empty
• Keep it clean
• Use Microwave cover
• Check the door seal
• Allow your food to stand
• Keep your Microwave in a safe place
• Know your Microwave

Conclusion

Remember to stay away from above mentioned 10 things to maintain the best possible functioning condition and prevent any safety issues with your microwave. Always look for the symbols that indicate microwave safety on labels, and abide by the guidelines given. You can continue to use your microwave effectively and safely for many years to come by following these safety measures.

FAQs

What are the 3 disadvantages of using a Microwave Oven?
Uneven heating, the possibility of food drying out, and the requirement for microwave-safe utensils to avoid breakage or mishaps are other potential downsides.

Can I microwave Milk?
Milk can be heated most easily in a microwave, but you will need to watch it closely. It should take 45 seconds for one cup (250 mL) of milk to come to room temperature and 2.5 minutes for it to boil. Stir it every fifteen seconds or so to prevent boiling.

Is it necessary to cover your food in Microwave Oven?
It is not a good idea to cook food in the microwave uncovered in an attempt to expedite the procedure. Covering the dish can assist ensure consistent cooking and help eliminate bacteria because steam is created underneath the cover.