The Microwave Oven: A Hidden Chef in Plain Sight

Lifestyle

January 15, 2022

The microwave oven is a busy bee’s best friend. It is exceptionally convenient, straightforward, and swift. Since its boost in use, many creative individuals have come up with microwave meals to save time, energy, and money.

However, some believe that microwaves are harmful, producing radiation and damaging food nutrients.

What Is a Microwave Oven?

Microwave ovens are kitchen appliances that heat food with microwaves, a form of electromagnetic radiation. These waves cause vibration to the water molecules in food, making heat that cooks the food.

A vacuum tube in the microwave oven called a magnetron is responsible for producing the waves. It reflects the waves in the metal interior, passing through plastic, glass, paper, and more, which are then absorbed by food.

Is a Microwave Oven Harmful?

Due to its unfortunate connotation, anything that contains the word “radiation” often gets a bad reputation. But, not all radiation is harmful.

Microwave ovens release non-ionising radiation that only has enough energy to move atoms in a molecule around, which means it can only move the food molecules.

Non-ionising radiation is not strong enough to remove electrons; therefore, microwaves cannot change the chemical structure of food components.

What Are the Risks of Using Microwave Ovens?

Many injuries from microwave ovens are due to heat-related burns from hot containers or exploding liquids.

There are only several rare cases of radiation injury resulting from improper usage. For example, the malfunction of microwave oven seals exposes an ample amount of microwave radiation through the gaps.

What Are the Advantages of Microwave Ovens?

The benefits of using microwave ovens far outweigh its risks.

Cooking or heating food in a microwave oven is less dangerous than ovens or frying due to its lower cooking temperature, just the boiling point of water. Additionally, because microwave ovens can prepare food fast, the nutrients are not destroyed by extended cooking. Not to mention, its small size is perfect for those with restricted living space.

Another big plus to microwave ovens is that it’s not messy. This is because everything occurs in an enclosed container – no smoke nor steam! Also, users have control in setting their desired time and temperature.

Microwave Oven Safety Tips

1. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions. The user manual provides the safety precautions and operating procedures.

2. Use microwave-safe containers. Cookware specifically labelled for use in the microwave oven is the safest option. Avoid plastic containers (unless labelled microwave-safe) as many contain harmful hormone-disrupting compounds.

3. Ensure no leakage. Although there is little concern about the leak of excess microwave radiation, you should be mindful of microwave doors that are not firmly closed or are damaged.

The Microwave Oven: A Holy Grail

When appropriately used, microwave ovens can significantly help you go about your day — no more hustling and bustling in the kitchen. Open the door, place your food inside, set the time and temperature, and your delicious meal is all ready!