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Common mistakes when using the microwave: what foods and liquids to avoid

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The microwave is an appliance that is part of the kitchens of thousands of families around the world (Illustrative Image Infobae)

The arrival of microwave to homes was a milestone that transformed the way we cook, but confusion still persists about its safe and efficient use.

While it is an invaluable tool in the modern kitchen, improper handling can pose health and safety risks. It is essential to understand the potential dangers associated with its use, especially when heating liquids such as water and milk.

Here, a review of some foods and ingredients that should be avoided in the microwave.

When it comes to warming up water In the microwave, there is the possibility of a phenomenon known as “overheating,” where water can reach temperatures above its boiling point without boiling. This can lead to a dangerous situation, as the water will appear colder than it really is, increasing the risk of burns when handling it, warn the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

Additionally, heating liquids such as water and the milk Explosions may result if improper containers are used or if the proper heating time is exceeded.

Milk can suffer loss of nutrients, such as vitamin B12, and there is a risk of overflow

The milkwhen heated in the microwave, can also suffer loss of nutrients, such as vitamin B12, and there is a risk of it boiling over and being wasted if overheated.

Additionally, milk heated in dirty or non-microwave-safe containers can become contaminated, posing a health hazard. It is crucial, therefore, to be aware of these risks and take the necessary precautions when using the microwave to heat liquids.

Another food that should never be heated in the microwave is eggs. When heated, hard-boiled eggs can develop small pockets of steam within the yolk, which can overheat and explode, posing a danger to those nearby, the agency warns. National Library of Medicine of the United States, belonging to the National Institutes of Health (NIH)

Similarly, the butter and the margarine They should also not be heated in the microwave, as they can lose their nutritional value and heat unevenly, which could affect their flavor and texture.

Risks with eggs: hard-boiled eggs can explode in the microwave due to the development of steam pockets, representing a danger to the safety of those nearby (Illustrative image Infobae)

Reheating foods such as sausages, sausage, bacon and other meats processed in the microwave also carry risks.

These foods, which often contain preservatives to prolong their shelf life, can generate oxidized cholesterol products (POPs) when reheated in the microwave, making them toxic for human consumption. Therefore, it is important to avoid reheating these meats in the microwave and opt for alternative heating methods.

In the case of foods like pasta, it is essential to use the appropriate method to reheat it and preserve its flavor and texture. If it is pasta without sauce or filling, the best way to reheat it is by submerging it in boiling water on the stove for a few minutes.

However, if the pasta is covered in a creamy sauce or oil, the reheating process can be more delicate, as there is a risk of the sauce separating or ruining the consistency of the dish.

Risks of overheating: heating water in the microwave can generate a dangerous phenomenon known as “overheating,” increasing the risk of burns when handling it.

To reheat pasta with a sauce based on tomato, it is recommended to place it in a small saucepan on the stove over medium heat and, if necessary, add a little water to prevent the sauce from becoming too thick. It’s important to stir the pasta frequently to ensure even heating and add seasonings as needed to enhance the flavor.

The French fries They are another food that can lose their flavor and texture when reheated in the microwave. To preserve their characteristic crunch, it is preferable to reheat them in a pan with hot oil. This method ensures that the fries retain their original flavor and texture, providing a more satisfying cooking experience.

As you can see, although the microwave is a convenient tool in the kitchen, it is important to use it safely and consciously.

Avoiding heating certain foods, such as liquids, hard-boiled eggs, and processed meats, can help prevent accidents and ensure the quality of reheated foods. By opting for alternative reheating methods and following proper precautions, we can take full advantage of the microwave’s capabilities without compromising the safety or taste of our food.

Everyday products such as lemon, white vinegar and baking soda stand out as allies in the natural cleaning of the microwave (Illustrative Image Infobae)

The cleaning of the microwave It is an essential task to maintain the hygiene and proper functioning of this appliance so widely used in modern homes. Often, however, we face challenges when trying to remove stubborn dirt and odors that build up with regular use.

Luckily, there are simple and effective methods that use common household ingredients, offering a sustainable and environmentally friendly alternative.

Plastic containers can release millions of microparticles when heated in the microwave

To start, everyday products like lemonhe White vinegar and the sodium bicarbonate They stand out as allies in the natural cleaning of the microwave. These items are not only known for their disinfecting and degreasing properties, but they are also easy to find and inexpensive. Their effectiveness has been proven over time in various household cleaning tasks, making them reliable options to keep our microwave impeccable.

The cleaning process begins with the preparation of a solution made of lemon juice, water and a tablespoon of white vinegar.

This mixture is placed in a microwave-safe container and heated for three minutes, taking advantage of the steam generated to soften the dirt embedded in the walls of the appliance. Once the heating time is complete, a damp cloth is enough to remove the residue, greatly simplifying the cleaning task and leaving the microwave fresh and ready for its next use.



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