Never, ever put this in the microwave
The microwave is an incredibly handy appliance and we love using it. But you do need to be careful, because there are a few things you need to keep in mind. The following things should never, ever be put in the microwave.
Frozen meat, fish or chicken
Take frozen meat, fish or chicken out of the freezer the night before and let it thaw in the refrigerator. Need it unexpectedly? Then defrost it au bain-marie. However, never put it in the microwave—you create a paradise for bacteria. Temperatures in the microwave range between 50℃ and 150℃, which means salmonella, for example, can run rampant.
Water
Water in a glass, mug or cup. However you contain it, it is dangerous. Water can become too hot in the microwave. When you pick it up and move it, it will ‘erupt’ and splash boiling water all over you. This effect is called ‘delayed boiling’. How can you prevent it? Add an object to the water, such as a teaspoon or a little lemon; this will prevent delayed boiling.
Fruit – frozen or fresh
Defrosting frozen fruit in the microwave? Don’t. The microwave radiation converts glucoside and galactoside in the fruit into substances that can make you seriously ill. Fresh fruit in the microwave is not a good idea either. Apples will collapse and raisins will go up in smoke. Be especially careful with grapes: they heat up so quickly that they catch fire or explode.
Eggs in their shells
We can’t quite imagine that you think this is a good idea, but you never know. Never put eggs in their shells in the microwave, whether they are raw or boiled. The pressure on the shell makes them explode. Good luck cleaning up.
Aluminium or other metal
If you have ever done this, you know perfectly well why it is not a good idea. Aluminium cannot withstand microwaves in the microwave. How does that work? When a microwave hits metal, the energy is not used to heat the molecule. Instead, a spark will jump across. The result: lightning bolts in your microwave.
Plastic, paper and cardboard
When heated, plastic, paper and cardboard catch fire quickly. They also release chemical substances. The same applies to plastic: it can make you seriously ill. Make sure your container is microwave proof; you obviously don’t want melted plastic in your meal. Did you order takeaway and get a styrofoam container? You know, those white foam-plastic boxes? Do not put them in your microwave! When heated, foam plastic releases highly harmful chemicals.
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