The speed and convenience of the microwave make it an essential appliance in many homes. However, it is essential to use it with caution, especially when heating liquids. Although it may seem simple, heating water in the microwave can carry risks that not everyone is aware of.
Liquids, in particular, do not behave the same when heated in the microwave compared to others traditional methods. Even though it seems like everything is under control, the truth is that the heat generated by this device is not distributed evenly. This can lead to unexpected and even dangerous resultsespecially if the necessary precautions are not taken.
Why you shouldn’t heat water in the microwave
He use the microwave to heat water This is very common, but it can carry risks that not everyone is aware of. Although we tend to think that water simply boils without further complications, a phenomenon called “overheating” can occur. In this case, the water reaches temperatures above the boiling point without boiling, causing a false sense of security.
The danger arises when, when you remove the glass or cup of water from the microwave, suddenly the accumulated heat is released in the form of steamwhich can cause serious burns. Additionally, using improper containers can increase the risk of overheated water spilling or exploding when removed from the microwave.
Although this may seem like a simple theory, the truth is that many accidents happen because of this, especially when water is heated in the microwave for several minutes. THE absence of bubbles on the surface This may suggest that the liquid is not as hot, increasing the risk. For these reasons, experts recommend using the microwave carefully, making sure to use suitable containers and not exceeding a minute or a minute and a half to heat the water.
If need hot waterIt is best to boil it in a pot or teapot, where the signs of boiling are clearer and safer to avoid burns or accidents.
Foods prohibited in this device
The microwave is not the best way to heat the breast milkdue to its irregular way of heating liquids. This can cause very high temperatures in the rooms, which poses a risk to the baby. Additionally, this uneven heating can degrade some essential nutrients and antibodies found in breast milk, compromising its nutritional value. Ideally, use a bottle warmer or water bath to heat it evenly.
Although it is possible to heat fish in the microwave, this is not recommended. Fish is high in natural fats and when heated in this appliance it can give off a very strong odor which sticks to the appliance. Additionally, the fish risks drying out and losing its texture and flavor. It is therefore preferable to steam it, in the oven or in a pan, to better preserve its flavor and quality.
Heat a egg in shell in the microwave, it can be dangerous. The reason is that the steam generated inside the egg has nowhere to escape, causing internal pressure to build up. In many cases, this can cause the egg to explode, dirty the microwave, and even cause burns to the person handling it. Although some people try to prick the egg before heating it, this does not completely eliminate the risk, so it is safer to use traditional cooking methods.
Heat chillies or peppers in the microwave, it is dangerous because of the vapors they release. Capsaicin, the compound responsible for itching, evaporates during the process, and when you open the microwave, the steam can irritate the eyes and throat, generating a burning sensation similar to exposure to pepper spray. To avoid this discomfort, it is best to reheat these foods in a pan or in the oven.
It seems harmless, but warm grapes in the microwave can cause serious problems. When grapes are exposed to microwaves, they tend to generate plasma, a form of matter that emits tiny sparks. This can not only damage the microwave, but also cause a fire. It is therefore best to avoid heating small, juicy fruits in this appliance, as they tend to behave the same way.
THE processed meatsFoods such as sausages or ham should not be reheated in the microwave due to their high content of preservatives and additives. By exposing these products to microwaves, compounds harmful to health may be generated. Some studies indicate that this process produces cholesterol oxidation products, which are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
