First invented by accident in the 1940s , the microwave is now one of the main kitchen appliances in every home. While this gadget means cooking and reheating convenience, there are specific types of foods that you should avoid microwave cooking at all costs.
Bright Side is here to help you stay safe and healthy. By following these tips and following them, you will reduce the chances of an accident occurring.
1. Boiled eggs
If you heat a cooked egg in the microwave, it may cause an accident. When the water molecules begin to evaporate due to microwave energy, an increasing pressure is generated inside the egg . Because eggs have a thin membrane and shell, they can't take all this pressure, which can cause a very hot explosion in the microwave, on the plate, or even when you bite into it!
2. Carrots
Although carrots can be cooked and heated in the microwave, these raw vegetables, especially those that retain their skins, are potentially dangerous. If carrots are not washed properly and have some dirt residue, minerals in the soil can cause sparks in the microwave, also known as arcing . This arc can cause serious damage to your microwave if it is not interrupted in time.
3. Processed meat
For starters, processed meats are not the most nutritious foods, as they contain large amounts of salt, additives, chemicals, and preservatives. But when you add microwave radiation to deli meats and your favorite canned goods, your cholesterol levels can rise, which can lead to heart problems. The safest way to heat hams and sausages is on the grill or on the stove.
4. Water
Heating water in the microwave may seem like the simplest and most hassle-free option. But studies show that many cases of burns come from boiling water heated in the microwave, especially when handled by children. Electromagnetic waves from a microwave oven can cause the water to overheat , causing the water molecules to become unstable. This can cause intense boiling and even explosions!
5. Chili peppers
Chili peppers, especially those that are very hot, contain high levels of capsaicin, which can be quite flammable . When capsaicin is exposed to electromagnetic waves from a microwave, it begins to smoke and is prone to catching fire! Fire and smoke released from the microwave can cause skin irritation and a burning sensation.
6. Chicken
Chicken is a popular culprit for spreading salmonella , especially when it's undercooked! When you microwave a piece of raw chicken, the chances of even and thorough cooking are very slim, making it a potential danger of bacterial contamination. The same can be said for other pieces of raw meat. It is best to cook meat well over direct heat, such as in a skillet, on a grill, or in the oven.
7. Tomatoes and tomato sauce
Like hard-boiled eggs, tomatoes can cause an explosive disaster when they spend too much time in the microwave. Due to the liquid content in fresh tomatoes and pasta sauce, the build-up of pressure causes them to bubble and spew, leaving the microwave covered in red splatters.
Have you ever had any of these mishaps with the microwave? In your experience, are there other foods that should not be exposed to microwave electromagnetic waves?