Microwaves may be super convenient. But not everything goes inside them! Some items may cause fires, release harmful chemicals, or even damage your appliance. Which.co.uk on the 8 common things you should always keep far away from your microwave, both for safety and food quality.
Tomato sauces are thick and dense, which causes uneven heating in the microwave. Steam pockets form under the surface, can suddenly erupt, causing explosive splattering that may damage your microwave or make it unsafe to open.
Microwaving fresh chillies cause the capsaicin to vaporise. This releases fumes into the air that will irritate your eyes, nose, throat, and even lungs, almost like pepper spray. Capsaicin is highly volatile when exposed to heat and spreads quickly in confined spaces. It’s better to cook chillies on your stove with proper ventilation.
When microwaved, processed meats like hot dogs form nitrosamines, especially if they contain nitrates/nitrites. These compounds are linked to increased cancer risk. Studies by the National Cancer Institute and the Environmental Health Perspectives show that microwave heating makes this risk higher than pan-frying. Opt for boiling or baking instead.
According to Healthline, avoid warming breast milk in the microwave. This method heats unevenly, creating hot spots that could potentially burn a baby. Additionally, research suggests that microwaving may harm the valuable nutrients and antibodies naturally present in breast milk.
Microwaving kale may cause the release of nitrosamines. These compounds are potentially carcinogenic when exposed to higher temperatures. The leaves can catch fire in the microwave due too excessive heat.
Raw eggs in their shells explode in the microwave. Steam builds up faster than it can escape through the shell, creating pressure that leads to bursts, which might damage your microwave and cause burns.
Microwaving whole, hard-boiled eggs is not a good idea either and will lead to an explosive steam build-up inside the shell or yolk. Even after taking them out of the microwave, they can explode in your hand or mouth.
Frozen berries, especially those with thin skins, overheat and explode because of steam buildup beneath their surface.