Microwaves have revolutionized how we heat and cook food, making kitchen tasks quicker and more convenient. We’ve gotten used to popping just anything into the microwave to make our lives easier.
However, only some things are microwave-safe, and putting the wrong things in the microwave is a terrible idea.
Putting the wrong items in the microwave can be dangerous, sparking fires and producing toxic fumes. To keep your kitchen safe and your microwave in good working order, here are 15 surprising things you should never put in your microwave.
Metal
Putting metal items like forks, spoons, and other silverware in the microwave is a recipe for disaster. The metal can cause sparks to fly, igniting a fire inside your microwave. Additionally, metal objects can damage the appliance’s internal components. Always transfer food to microwave-safe containers before heating.
Aluminum Foil
Aluminum foil might seem convenient for covering dishes, but it’s a big no-no for microwaves. The thin metal can create sparks and even cause a fire. The microwaves reflect off the foil, causing it to heat rapidly, damaging both the microwave and the food. It’s best to use microwave-safe covers or lids instead.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel containers, including travel mugs and some cookware, should never be used in the microwave. Like other metals, stainless steel can cause sparking and fire. Moreover, it blocks the microwaves from heating your food, making the process ineffective. Stick to microwave-safe glass or plastic for reheating.
Some Delicate Plastics
Not all plastics are created equal when it comes to microwaves. Delicate plastics, especially those not labeled microwave-safe, can melt and release harmful chemicals into your food. These plastics can warp and create hot spots that might lead to burns. Always check the label and use only microwave-safe plastic containers.
Some To-Go Containers
Many to-go containers, especially those made of Styrofoam or certain plastics, are unsuitable for microwaving. They can melt, leach chemicals, or catch fire. The container can cause health and safety hazards even if the food inside gets warm. Transfer your food to a microwave-safe dish before reheating.
Foam Plates
Foam plates are convenient for quick meals but dangerous in the microwave. The foam can melt, releasing toxic chemicals into your food. Additionally, the plate might catch fire if it gets too hot. Always opt for microwave-safe plates to avoid these risks.
Eggs in Their Shell
Microwaving eggs in their shells is a messy mistake. The rapid heating causes steam to build up inside the egg, which can lead to an explosive outcome. You will have a huge mess to clean up, and the explosion could also damage your microwave. If you want to cook eggs quickly, crack them into a microwave-safe bowl first.
Fine China
Your fine china might look sturdy, but it often has metal accents or delicate glazes that can’t withstand microwave heat. These metal trims can spark, and the fragile material can crack or shatter. Use only plain, microwave-safe dishes to preserve your china and your microwave.
Hot Dogs
While it might seem like a quick way to heat a snack, microwaving hot dogs can be risky; they can develop dangerous hot spots that might cause burns when you bite them. Also, they can burst from the steam buildup if not adequately ventilated. It’s safer to heat them on the stove or in a microwave-safe dish with slits cut in them.
Dutch Oven
Dutch ovens are fantastic for slow cooking but terrible for microwaving. Most have metal parts or heavy materials that aren’t microwave-safe. They can cause sparks or damage the microwave. Transfer your food to a suitable container if you need to reheat it in the microwave.
Paper Bags
Microwaving paper bags might seem harmless, but it can be very dangerous. The paper can catch fire, and some bags are coated with chemicals that release toxic fumes when heated. Additionally, the bag could ignite, causing a fire in your microwave. Use microwave-safe containers instead.
Plastic
Plastic containers, especially those not labeled microwave-safe, can melt or release harmful chemicals into your food. The high heat of the microwave can cause the plastic to warp or melt, which can lead to spills or burns. Always check the container’s label and use only those marked as microwave-safe.
Dairy Containers – Like Yogurt and Butter Bins
Reusing dairy containers, such as yogurt or butter bins, for microwaving, is a bad idea. These containers are not designed to withstand the high heat of a microwave and can melt or leach chemicals into your food. Transfer dairy products to microwave-safe dishes before heating.
Grapes
Microwaving grapes is a surprisingly bad idea. The small fruits can create plasma, leading to sparks and possibly a fire. The high water content and thin skin of grapes cause them to heat unevenly, producing explosive results. Eat your grapes fresh, or try other safe cooking methods.
Dishes With Metal Trim
Dishes with metal trim may look elegant, but they don’t belong in the microwave. The metal can cause sparks and potentially start a fire, and the trim can heat up unevenly, causing the dish to crack or shatter. Stick to microwave-safe dishware to avoid these risks.
12 Foods You Can Eat a Lot of Without Gaining Weight
Are there foods you’ve always avoided in the hope that they don’t mess with your weight? While some foods are high in calories and can make you gain weight, a restrictive diet isn’t always the answer. Interestingly, some foods you could be avoiding could be the key to loosing weight.
These are some of the foods you can eat without gaining weight. Most of these foods have fiber, protein, and good fats to boost satiety and sustain energy throughout the day.
Let’s discuss 12 foods you can eat a lot of without gaining weight.
12 Foods You Can Eat a Lot of Without Gaining Weight
6 Anti-Inflammatory Foods for Your Knee, Hip & Back Pain
Inflammation occurs when your body reacts to foreign substances. While certain anti-inflammatory drugs can help eliminate inflammation, a diet change can help reduce inflammation and swelling. Here are six anti-inflammatory foods to help reduce knee, hip, and back pain.
Leave a Reply