It’s possible you’ve heard the rumour about microwave ovens being unsafe. These rumors are, in fact, unfounded. As of yet no-one has proven a connection between cancer or any condition and microwaves. Even the initial late 1980s study, that sparked many of the fears that people have, was not conclusive. Though there are certain safe practices that you ought to be aware of in cooking with newer microwave ovens, the conclusion of experts is that they’re basically harmless.

Cancer Not a Concern

There are no documented cases of cancer, or any other condition, being brought on by the use of microwave ovens. Microwaves actually produce non-ionizing radiation, the opposite of other types of radiation and x-rays which are associated with cancer and other conditions. On the other hand, even if radiation isn’t a threat, there are still some safety issues you should take note of. Microwaving is not without danger, just like any other cooking method .

Watch That Boiling Liquid

Fluids, for example, when warmed in a microwave container with a smooth surface, can easily overheat. They can rise swiftly to a temperature higher than boiling point, without actually boiling. When you disturb the liquid by adding other foodstuffs or by moving the container, they can start to boil violently. This can set off a sudden burst of water and steam, leading to burns and scalding. While you might have heard that this only happens with distilled water, microwaves can actually superheat other liquids, like coffee or tea.

Make Sure Potato Skins are Pierced

Other foodstuffs can be hazardous, too. Containers that aren’t adequately vented, or foodstuffs with a shell or skin, including eggs and potatoes, may very well explode in a microwave. That’s because steam accumulates inside these foods, with no way to escape. The food will burst under the pressure in the end. This leads to a big mess and may also bring about burns. Products that have been heated for long stretches of time can also catch on fire.

Never Under Any Circumstances Put Metal in a Microwave

Most people are aware not to place metal objects inside a microwave. Metal can result in arcing electricity or sparks, because the metal in the object resonates, generating an electric charge. Fires can be caused by microwaving a twist tie with a wire inside, or a takeout box with a metal carrier. Before using your microwave, be very careful to remove any metal, if you want to avoid the risk of fire.

Other Safety Tips

Never switch on a microwave oven with nothing inside it. When microwaves are run with nothing inside to soak up the radiation, a standing wave will be formed inside. This energy will get reflected between the tube and the cooking chamber, and may very well burn out your microwave. For the same reason food that has been dehydrated or is inside a metal covering ought never be microwaved. The wave will be reflected, rather than soaked up, by these materials.

Arcing can also be caused by improperly arranging foods. An instance of foods that are prone to this is grapes. Never put anything burning into your oven as this will also generate an electric spark. Even if they don’t look hot, handle all foodstuffs very carefully. Fluids are particularly hazardous, but all foods can be hotter than they seem to be. If you treat your microwave oven with proper care, you’ll have no difficulty producing tasty, safe food with it. Consequently, the bottom line is that you may purchase a microwave oven with the knowledge that it will present no hazards when used properly. As with any other cooking method, the microwave needs some safety precautions.

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