Many people use microwaves for heating up food on a daily basis, without really thinking about the possible consequences of doing so. You may have wondered at some point if it is safe to use one to warm or cook your food. Read these pros and cons and make an informed decision about how you cook and heat your meals. Is it safe to use a microwave to cook and warm food?
Pros
Heat Food Quickly
Of course, the main benefit of using a microwave is that it works fast. You can put in a pre-cooked meal or frozen dinner and have it ready to eat in a matter of no more than a few minutes. However, you will need to be cautious about the power level at which you microwave the food. Certain things need to be cooked at high power, while others are best at medium.
Standing Time
When using a microwave, many types of food will continue to cook when you take it out. This is because of the fact that molecules keep moving at a fast rate and produce heat. Foods that are denser will cook a bit longer after they come out of the microwave oven.
Ease of Use
Microwaves typically are very easy to use. The functions are clearly apparent, in most cases. Push a button (or a few) and then walk away to do what you need to, then return to a fully cooked meal or snack. It doesn’t get much easier than that.
Is it Safe to Use a Microwave to Cook and Warm Food?
Cons
Uneven Cooking
The major issue with heating or cooking in a microwave oven is that it works unevenly. It is effective at killing the bacteria, though. With meats and foods that are especially concerning, stir, or rotate the dish so that it will heat more uniformly. Also, it helps to add some liquid to the dish.
Containers and Dishes
You have to be careful about what kind of containers or dishes you use for microwaving. They should be free of any metal. Avoid heating or cooking in plastic that contains BPA, which are harmful chemicals that can leak into your food as it is heating.
Overview
Basically, microwaves are not as bad as we are told they are. There are many myths out there. As long as you learn what you can and can’t place in them, and know how to use them properly, you will be just fine with this convenient gadget.
