2008 Woodie Awards
Microwave 101
Things to know before you nuke
Megan McClure
Issue date: 8/17/07 Section: News
Do not Microwave
Aluminum foil
Microwaving foil will, at the very least, cause sparks and almost assuredly damage the microwave. By the same token, do not use other metal objects - including utensils, containers, steel wool or even twist ties - when microwaving. Save the fireworks show for the Fourth of July.
Whole eggs
You cannot boil an egg in the microwave, as it will, most likely, explode. This is the way microwaves are often unintentionally destroyed, leaving you (and, in residence halls, your 40 closest neighbors) without a very useful appliance.
Plastic
Many plastics and other containers are not microwave safe and present risks for chemicals to be released into food items. Even some types of dishes - especially plastic dishes - are not safe for microwave use. Before using any container to heat food in a microwave, check to see if it is labeled "microwave safe."
Foam containers
This material, too, should not be microwaved. When re-heating carry-out items, transfer food to microwave-safe cookware first.
Plastic wrap
Food should not come in contact with plastic wrap during the microwaving process. Grocery sacks (paper or plastic) and newspaper are also unsafe. Certain microwave-safe plastic wraps and other coverings are safe for use, but should not actually touch the food.
Cans
This falls under the same category as aluminum foil. Do not heat cans (containing food or beverages) in the microwave. Two key dangers exist with microwaving cans. First, metal objects are not microwaveable; secondly, objects heated in sealed containers are likely to explode.
Sealed containers
Liquids and solid foods alike pose dangerous risks if heated in sealed containers. When heating items in a microwave-safe container, leave the lid slightly cracked or askew to allow for proper ventilation.
Sporting equipment
Trust us, it's been done. If you have wet equipment, clothing or any other materials that need to be dried, find a safe place for them to air-dry. As a general rule, it's best to simply use common sense when using the microwave. Before nuking an item, stop and think, "Is this safe?" If not, re-think your plan.
Aluminum foil
Microwaving foil will, at the very least, cause sparks and almost assuredly damage the microwave. By the same token, do not use other metal objects - including utensils, containers, steel wool or even twist ties - when microwaving. Save the fireworks show for the Fourth of July.
Whole eggs
You cannot boil an egg in the microwave, as it will, most likely, explode. This is the way microwaves are often unintentionally destroyed, leaving you (and, in residence halls, your 40 closest neighbors) without a very useful appliance.
Plastic
Many plastics and other containers are not microwave safe and present risks for chemicals to be released into food items. Even some types of dishes - especially plastic dishes - are not safe for microwave use. Before using any container to heat food in a microwave, check to see if it is labeled "microwave safe."
Foam containers
This material, too, should not be microwaved. When re-heating carry-out items, transfer food to microwave-safe cookware first.
Plastic wrap
Food should not come in contact with plastic wrap during the microwaving process. Grocery sacks (paper or plastic) and newspaper are also unsafe. Certain microwave-safe plastic wraps and other coverings are safe for use, but should not actually touch the food.
Cans
This falls under the same category as aluminum foil. Do not heat cans (containing food or beverages) in the microwave. Two key dangers exist with microwaving cans. First, metal objects are not microwaveable; secondly, objects heated in sealed containers are likely to explode.
Sealed containers
Liquids and solid foods alike pose dangerous risks if heated in sealed containers. When heating items in a microwave-safe container, leave the lid slightly cracked or askew to allow for proper ventilation.
Sporting equipment
Trust us, it's been done. If you have wet equipment, clothing or any other materials that need to be dried, find a safe place for them to air-dry. As a general rule, it's best to simply use common sense when using the microwave. Before nuking an item, stop and think, "Is this safe?" If not, re-think your plan.
Viewing Comments 1 - 1 of 1
Appliance parts
posted 6/26/08 @ 11:30 AM CST
I appreciate the cooking tips, I never had a microwave but I intend to get one very soon. Now that I read about these little accidents I am having second thoughts, so some good tips would be most welcomed now. (Continued…)
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