Microwave has long been a reliable assistant in households, but are they really safe? Scientists advise: don’t put anything from these 10 items in the microwave if you don’t want serious consequences.
1. Plastic containers
According to researchers, when exposed to high temperatures, harmful chemicals in plastic can seep into food and have adverse effects on the body’s functions. These chemicals can cause unpredictable health hazards such as diabetes, infertility, heart diseases, etc.
Therefore, people should be cautious when reheating food. Remember that only products marked “microwave-safe” or “microwavable” should be used.
2. Paper boxes
Paper boxes containing styrofoam, which is a type of plastic, are highly toxic when exposed to high temperatures in the microwave. Therefore, avoid heating lunch boxes in the microwave unless the paper box is labeled “microwave-safe”.
3. Whole eggs
High temperatures in the microwave will cause the air inside the egg to expand and lead to an egg explosion, making a mess and posing a risk of fire. Therefore, do not attempt to microwave eggs. Instead, crack the eggs into a bowl, break the yolk, and microwave them until cooked.
4. Shellfish
Shellfish such as crab, clam, snail, etc., when put in the microwave, will lose their nutrients and delicious taste, and release unpleasant odors similar to rubber.
5. Chili peppers
Chili peppers can ignite in the microwave. When opening the microwave door, you and those standing nearby will be “attacked” by the hot and spicy vapor, causing tears and uncontrollable coughing.
6. Grapes
There are many fruits that can withstand high temperatures, but grapes will catch fire and explode if put in the microwave. Dried grapes (raisins) will ignite and produce smoke.
7. Foods with high nitrate content
Foods with high nitrate content, such as cured pork and smoked meat, should not be put in the microwave because nitrate will turn into nitrosamine, a substance that can cause cancer and affect the health of the whole family.
8. Metal containers or utensils
Metal items should be kept far away from the microwave. The microwave’s microwave cannot penetrate metal but will be reflected back into the oven, causing the surrounding area to heat up and potentially cause fire, damage to the oven, and serious harm to those around.
9. Thermal flasks and insulating bottles
Mini thermal flasks, thermoses, or stainless steel bottles prevent the hot air from the microwave from coming into contact with the liquid inside, and can even damage the oven. If the thermal flask is made of plastic, you need to check if the material is safe for the microwave.
10. Fabrics, towels, and cloth-based items
If you have a habit of using the microwave to dry or sterilize fabrics such as hand towels, tablecloths, cup coasters, etc., you need to stop immediately. This habit can cause the fabric to catch fire or cause a fire when the temperature is too high.
According to Phụ Nữ Việt Nam
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