The Modern Wave:
Microwaving Tips
 Microwave
ovens are a fixture in millions of kitchens. The first commercial
versions, enormous and costing thousands of dollars, hit the market
in 1947. Today, many people can't imagine living without the convenience
of microwave ovens because they work so quickly and efficiently,
heating only the food or drink without heating the containers.
How do they work? Microwaves are radio waves. Contrary to some
reports, microwaves don't cook foods from the inside out. Microwaved
foods typically retain more vitamins and minerals than cooking by
other methods because cooking time is less, and little or no additional
water is required.
Microwave Precautions
Like so many appliances, microwave ovens are safe when used properly,
but when misused they present dangers: fire, radiation or bacterial
infection due to uneven temperature control.
Don't use a microwave oven:
- To heat baby bottles. It doesn't allow for adequate temperature
control.
- To dry clothing. It can lead to fire.
- With some plastics, such as margarine tubs. The plastic material
can melt into and contaminate food.
- If the door is damaged or doesn't close completely. An oven
that doesn't close properly poses a radiation risk.
- If there is rusting inside. Rust can be an indication of radiation
leakage.
Here are some tips to promote microwave safety
- Stir liquids before heating and stir food midway through cooking.
- Don't let plastic wrap touch food during heating.
- Check food temperature before feeding it to a child.
- A turntable promotes even heating.
- Due to fire risk, don't leave a microwave oven unattended when
it's making popcorn.
- A microwave oven can be damaged if it's turned on while empty,
because of the effects of unabsorbed energy.
- Generally, don't use aluminum foil or metal pans made for conventional
ovens. These reflect the mirowaves, which can cause uneven cooking
or damage the oven.
- Clean a microwave oven with water and mild detergent, not with
abrasives such as scouring pads.
- If you have a pacemaker, stay away from the oven while it's
in use. Older-models may be affected by proximity to a microwave
oven.
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