Microwaves are commonly used kitchen appliances in households today. Some people prepare various dishes in them, while others simply use them to reheat food stored in the fridge. Experts, however, suggest avoiding heating food in a microwave oven, as it can reduce the nutrient content of the food.
Although cooking or reheating food in the oven may not always harm health directly, but using certain types of containers or materials can be harmful. Here are some of the utensils and materials which should be avoided when heating food in a microwave oven.
Plastic Utensils And Lunch Boxes
Many people heat food in plastic containers or lunch boxes, which can be very harmful. Several studies, as well as experts, advise against using plastic for hot food. Heating plastic can release harmful chemicals into the food. Prolonged use of plastic for heating food can increase the risk of certain cancers due to these chemicals.
Steel And Aluminium Utensils
Some people unknowingly heat food in steel or aluminium containers. This can be dangerous, as metal is a good conductor of electricity. Metal containers can heat up rapidly, increasing the risk of sparks, blasts, or fire. This can not only damage the food but also the container itself.
Aluminium Foil
Wrapping food like roti, paratha, or vegetables in aluminium foil and placing it in the microwave can be hazardous. Heating aluminium foil in a microwave can cause it to catch fire. It is advisable to avoid using foil altogether.
Follow The Instructions
Always read the instructions provided in the microwave’s user manual before placing any metal utensils in it. Utensils made of iron, steel, aluminium, glass, or clay should only be used if specified as safe in the manual. Microwave ovens work by generating electromagnetic fields through a small transmitter, emitting radiation to heat food. Using unsuitable materials can disrupt this process and pose safety risks.
Microwave-Safe Utensils
Glass and plastic containers labelled as ‘microwave-safe’ should be used. These are specially designed to withstand microwave heating without releasing harmful substances.
Aluminium Utensils For Grilling
If grilling is required, microwave-safe aluminium utensils can be used, but always follow the manufacturer’s instructions for compatibility.
