The microwave is a marvel of modern technology. Food can go from ice cold to blazing hot in a matter of seconds. It cuts down on cook time, speeds up prep time, and all-around makes the home cook’s job easier.
But not everything should go into a microwave. Some foods, beverages, and containers can release toxins, burn, melt, or even explode if nuked for less than a minute. Some may even turn toxic.
A few of these foods are fairly common—you may have even heated one in the microwave this morning. Just because something bad hasn’t happened doesn’t mean it won’t, however, so protect yourself and others by keeping these foods away from the hot box.
1. Eggs
Due to its high water content, radiation waves in the microwave will actually cause the whole egg to explode! Sunny-side-ups are prone to ‘eggsplosions’ as well. Omelettes are fine though – as long as they aren’t runny.
2. Plastic containers
Also, watch what you reheat your food in – you may end up melting the plastic and exploding your microwave! Always choose durable and microwave-safe ones – never go too cheap on this.
3. Fruits
Another touchy thing are fruits – grapes especially. Even melons aren’t microwavable.
4. Flammable things
Flammable things such as the common brown paper bags should not be used in the microwave as well – take the time to properly unwrap your takeaways before reheating them!
Did you know that most Styrofoam boxes fast food joints give you aren’t microwave friendly either? Be sure to check for any microwave non-nos, or you’ll end up having to buy another one.
5. Potato
Before you bake your potato, a word of caution – stab you potatoes to make little air holes for air to escape and prevent the potato from exploding.
6. Chilies
Even chilies aren’t – to stay safe, prevent from microwaving any raw fruits and veggies in general (except yams, potatoes and sweet potatoes).
Lastly, turn your microwave off when you’re not using it. Leaving it on could damage it – and shorten its lifespan in your kitchen!
Sources: relayhero.com, realsimple.com
