Have you ever wondered, “Why are microwaves dangerous?” The short answer is that they aren’t, but you need to understand much information behind that answer. Microwaves work by causing the molecules in food to vibrate at high speeds, producing heat quickly and efficiently. The best microwaves are safe, easy to use, and come loaded with features.
KEY TAKEAWAYS:
- Microwave energy poses no health risks to the human body, and these devices are great for speeding up the heating time for all sorts of foods.
- Microwaved food is not inherently dangerous and can be better for you since microwaves don’t leech out as many nutrients in food.
- Many of the dangers of microwaves are related to incorrectly using them or leaving the microwave for periods of time while it’s in use.
Are Microwave Ovens Dangerous?
Some people believe that this is one of the most harmful methods of cooking. However, this simply isn’t true. Microwave ovens use non-ionizing radiation, which covers visible light, radiofrequency, and microwaves. This is safe for the human body and doesn’t cause issues with the white blood cells in human blood. It also doesn’t cause cancerous cells to grow.
To find out more, ask the question, “How do microwaves work?” and go from there.
Insider Tip
Ensure that the cookware you invest in is microwave safe so that you don’t have to second guess popping a dish into your microwave.
Some Dangers of Microwave Ovens
No system is perfect, microwaves included. While microwave energy is safe, user error can introduce serious consequences. You don’t have to worry about cancerous growths, but there are other concerns afoot.
If you’re wondering how to replace an over range microwave, we have a great article on the topic.
Burns from Hot Food
When heating food, do so in short bursts. Over an extended period of time, heating can cause heat pockets to form in food, so it’s cold in one spot but boiling in another. This can cause burns to your body tissues. This concern is relevant to conventional cooking practices, as well. The dangers of microwave cooking generally are.
Metal and Electromagnetic Waves
Most people know that electromagnetic waves do not mix with metal. However, accidents do happen, and you may not even realize something has metal in it until it’s too late. Make sure that you only use microwave-safe options for your utensils and dishes if you plan on popping them in for a reheat. Otherwise, you could end up with a disaster on your hands.
High Blood Pressure from Sodium
This is less about the dangers of microwave ovens and more about the food you choose. Traditional microwave food can be high in sodium. If you primarily rely on microwaved meals, make sure you avoid frozen dinners as much as possible.
Instead, choose healthy alternatives such as vegetables, fruits, and low-sodium options. This will help you keep your blood pressure under control even when utilizing this fantastic invention.
Warning
Be careful when heating frozen vegetables in the microwave since boiling water can quickly become a health hazard.
F.A.Q.S
Can you boil a cup of water in a microwave?
Microwaved water is entirely safe to consume. However, there is danger in the process. Water molecules can erupt if pushed past their boiling point. Keep a close eye on cooking time if you’re choosing this method to boil water.
Are microwaves bad for your health?
While microwave meals might be lacking nutritionally, this isn’t due to a failing on the machine. Microwave cooking heats food quickly and leeches away the least amount of nutrients in food. Because of this, they’re sometimes more nutritionally advantageous than a conventional oven.
How does microwave cooking work?
Microwaves essentially release high-energy radio waves, which is where microwave energy comes from. This is what heats microwaved foods. They cause the molecules in the food to vibrate violently. Microwaves seem only to affect specific structures of molecules.
Is microwave radiation dangerous to the human body?
Microwave exposure can be harmful in large doses. However, microwave cooking has a strict limit for how much electromagnetic radiation can be released. You’re exposed to more radiation from your laptop, TV, and other electronic devices.
STAT: The mean expenditure on microwave ovens in the US has increased by about 60% in the past five years. (source)
REFERENCES:
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=M53hl2-bprc
- https://food.unl.edu/documents/microwave_safety_3.pdf
- https://www.researchgate.net/post/Microwave-oven-heated-foods-are-they-safer
- https://www.fau.edu/ehs/info/microwave-fire-safety.pdf
- https://www.researchgate.net/publication/301516381_Adverse_Effects_of_Microwaves
