Written by Jenny Catton
Smaller and cheaper than ever before, microwaves have come a long way in the past few decades and are now a staple piece of kit in most family kitchens. With the ability to cook meals in minutes, microwaves fit perfectly with today’s busy lifestyles.
Of course, as with any piece of electrical equipment, it’s important to use your microwave safely. Following the manufacturer’s instructions will help prevent injury as well as avoiding illness caused by food poisoning.
It’s important to check your microwave regularly – never use a microwave that has a damaged door, or signs of damage elsewhere. Always follow the instructions for the food you are cooking. For example, check ready meals to see if the container is suitable for microwaving and if not; decant the food to a microwaveable alternative.
Check that food is completely cooked all the way through before serving. Be aware that food can become incredibly hot after being cooked in a microwave, so may need to sit for a few minutes before serving. Also remember that ready meal containers can sometimes soften slightly when cooking so you may need to wait a minute for them to regain their firmness.
Some people worry about the effects of radiation caused by microwave ovens and the possibility that they could cause cancer. Studies have failed to show a clear link between microwaves and cancer and most experts suggest that the small amounts of energy given off are unlikely to cause harm. However, to be on the safe side, you may wish to stand away from the microwave when it is in use.
You can find more information about the possible links between microwaves and cancer at: www.cancerresearchuk.org
