Sometimes it just has to be quick. The day was long, the stomach is growling – it’s a good thing that there is still something left over from the menu from the day before. Quickly put it in the microwave, heat it up briefly and the food steams on the plate. But be careful: not all food and dishes are compatible with the technology of the device. This can not only be unappetizing, but also extremely dangerous and bad for your health.
A compelling argument in favor of a microwave is the speed at which the device operates. That leads to experiments. One of the most common mistakes is trying to boil your morning breakfast egg in it. The egg explodes. You can see what that looks like in the video below. Chestnuts also explode, sausages burst open. Foods with a firm shell or skin should be heated conventionally.
sparks and fire
It is well known that combustible materials such as styrofoam and plastic have no place in the device. But there are also quite a few vegetables. Heating leafy vegetables such as kale in the appliance can cause sparks and even fire. Oils and fats are also flammable and can catch fire. If they are part of a meal, there is no danger.
Potatoes are a no-go in the microwave, they should never be heated in the appliance. If they are not stored directly in a cool place, bacterial spores can form on them. If the potatoes are then only heated briefly or at a low temperature, the bacteria do not die and, in the worst case, cause food poisoning. The same applies to boiled mushrooms. They are fodder for microorganisms. Potato and mushroom dishes should therefore be heated evenly in a pot and at a temperature of at least 70 degrees.
You should also stay away from microwave chicken. The general rule is that chicken should ideally be eaten straight away and should not be reheated. On the one hand, the protein structures in the meat change when it is heated a second time, and the body can no longer digest the proteins as well. Symptoms such as nausea and diarrhea are possible. On the other hand, salmonella is a danger. Since these do not die off in the microwave either. The meat should therefore be heated conventionally, like the potatoes. It is important that the meat – including the core – is hot when it is eaten.
In the photo series above you can read about which foods it is also advisable to take the time to heat conventionally.