Sensible Microwave Oven Precautions

You may possibly have been told that microwave ovens are hazardous. There is no fact to substantiate these rumours. As yet, no relationship between microwaves and cancer or any other illness has been established. There was a research project in the late 1980s that is behind most of the worries that people have, but even that wasn't conclusive.

Don't Worry About Cancer

There are no recorded cases of cancer, or any other illness, being caused by the use of microwave ovens. Cancer can be triggered by ionizing radiation and x-rays - the opposite of microwaves which produce non-ionizing radiation. Nevertheless, although radiation is crossed off the list, there are other safety concerns around the use of microwaves that we really need to be careful of. That's because, just like every other cooking method, microwaving has its risks.

Watch That Boiling Liquid

Heating up fluids in a microwave container with a smooth surface can result in overheating. They can rise rapidly to a temperature higher than boiling point, without actually boiling. When you disturb the fluid by adding other foodstuffs or by moving the container, they can start to boil violently. Serious scalding can result from the sudden burst of water and steam this releases. This is more likely to occur with distilled water, but superheating can also occur with other liquids, such as coffee and tea.

Be Sure Egg Shells are Pierced

There can also be danger in preparing various other foods other than liquids. Containers that aren't correctly ventilated, or items with a shell or skin, like eggs and potatoes, may well explode in a microwave. Without proper ventilation, steam can build up inside. With no way of escape, an explosion could very well be the result. The accumulation of pressure could possibly cause the food to explode after a while. This leads to a big mess and could very well also bring about burns. Products that have been heated for long stretches of time can also catch on fire.

Never Put Metal in a Microwave

Most people are aware not to place metal objects inside a microwave. Metal can cause sparks or arcing electricity, because the metal in the object resonates, producing an electric charge. Fires can be caused by microwaving a twist tie that has a wire inside, or a takeout box with a metal carrier. Be extra careful to remove any metal from your microwave before using it, to avoid the danger of fire.

Other Things to Be Aware Of

You must also be careful not to use your microwave when it's empty. When microwaves are run without an object inside to absorb the radiation, they will form a standing wave inside. This energy will get reflected between the tube and the cooking chamber, and may very well burn out your microwave. You should also avoid microwaving food that has been dehydrated, for the same reason, or food contained in a metal covering. The wave will be reflected, rather than absorbed, by these materials.

If foods are arranged improperly, they may arc. Grapes are an example of a food that can cause this. Your microwave should never have anything burning put inside it, as this will generate an electric spark. Even if they don't look hot, handle all foodstuffs very carefully. They may be hotter than they appear, and fluids can be especially dangerous. You'll have no problem producing safe, flavorsome meals with your microwave, provided that you handle it with care. Just like any other cooking apparatus, the microwave needs a few safety precautions.