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By Howard Seidman, HealthAtoZ Writer
The first commercial microwave oven debuted in 1947. It weighed 670 pounds and cost $2,000 (or about $20,000 today). The oven was 62 inches high and about 2 feet wide and deep.
Modern microwaves take up much less counter space and few kitchens are without them. Yet, people often rely on the convenience of the microwave oven without thinking about safety issues. Understanding how microwaves work can help you use your oven safely.
Is microwaved food safe?
Microwave ovens use electric and magnetic energy to produce heat. The waves generate heat by causing molecules to move rapidly. They pass through the outer layers of food and the waves are generally absorbed on the food's surface. If the food is thick, a longer cook time is needed or the inside can remain raw.
No radiation remains after cooking stops. This is usually the moment that an oven's door latch is released or the door opens. All microwave ovens must have two separate interlocking systems that stop wave production. A monitoring system stops it in case one or both systems fail.
The microwave oven uses non-ionizing radiation, which cannot change the structure of the body's cells. So, there is no evidence linking microwave use to cancer, according to the American Cancer Society.
What type of container is safest for cooking?
Using just any container in a microwave can prove dangerous. Read your oven's instruction manual for cooking container guidelines. In general:
- Glass, paper, ceramic or some plastic containers are best.
- Metal pans, aluminum foil or containers with wire handles (as with take-out Chinese food) should not be used. Microwaves reflect off these materials. This causes food to cook unevenly and can sometimes damage the oven.
Use cookware that is made and labeled for microwave use. Pay special attention to any plastics put in the oven. Margarine tubs, take-out containers and one-time use containers can warp or melt. This melting can result in burns or spills and allow harmful chemicals to spill into food.
What can you use to wrap or cover foods while cooking?
Use microwave-approved plastic wrap during heating. This will help foods retain moisture and cook more evenly. Using the wrong type of wrap can cause a fire in the oven or let unsafe chemicals melt into your food.
Do use:
- Microwave plastic wrap
- Wax paper
- Cooking bags
- Parchment paper
- White microwave-safe paper towels
Don't use these materials, which can melt or catch on fire:
- Thin plastic storage bags
- Grocery bags
- Brown paper
- Newspaper
- Styrofoam
When using plastic wrap, don't let it touch food while microwaving. Place the wrap on the container at least an inch away from food. This keeps the wrap from melting, prevents splattering, allows steam to escape, helps destroy harmful bacteria and ensures safe, even cooking. If microwaving pre-packaged meals, be sure to check the instructions to see if any wrapping needs to be removed or vented before cooking.
More microwave safety tips
- Inspect the oven for damage to door hinges, latches or seals every few months.
- Never use an oven that looks damaged or could operate with the door open.
- Don't stand directly against a microwave oven for long periods while it is turned on.
- Use water and mild detergent to clean the inside of the oven, the door and areas around it. Do not use scouring pads, steel wool or other abrasives.
- Children should not use microwave ovens unless an adult is watching.
- Use potholders to remove food from the oven.
- Uncover foods away from your face. This helps you avoid steam burns.
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