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List Shows Why These Common Items Can Cause Accidents, Loss of Nutrients, or Even Fire Hazards and Reveals Safe Ways to Heat Each One.
The microwave is one of the most practical appliances in the modern kitchen, but not everything can go in it. Certain foods can explode, release toxins, or simply lose their quality when heated this way. Besides the health risk, the appliance can also be damaged.
According to journalist Sheila Silva from the TechTudo portal, knowing the restrictions is essential to avoid accidents and preserve both the food and the appliance.
Next, check out 10 foods that should not go in the microwave and understand the safest alternative heating methods.
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Whole Egg
The interior heats quickly and generates pressure that can explode the shell, scattering hot contents and causing burns.
The safe method is to boil in water or use a proper container, breaking the egg and puncturing the yolk.
Breast Milk or Formulas
Uneven heating creates hot spots that can burn the baby, in addition to the risk of explosion in sealed baby bottles.
Water bath is the recommended method, stirring well to even out the temperature.
Pepper
When heated, capsaicin evaporates and spreads like pepper gas, causing irritation to the eyes, nose, and throat.
The ideal is to heat it on the stove, controlling the fumes.
Thick Sauces (Tomato, Cheese)
They form internal bubbles and can burst, making a mess in the appliance. Additionally, they heat unevenly.
Heat on the stove, on low heat and stirring constantly.
Oil
Oils and fats can quickly exceed their smoke point and catch fire. The microwave was not made for frying.
The correct way is to heat on the stove, where temperature can be controlled.
Processed Meats
Sausages, hot dogs, and bacon can develop harmful compounds when heated rapidly. Additionally, they can be uneven: hot on the outside and cold on the inside.
Prefer using the stove, oven, or grill.
Carrot
It can generate sparks due to the minerals present in the vegetable.
To heat, cut into smaller pieces, add water, and lightly cover the container.
Leafy Vegetables
Spinach, kale, and lettuce lose texture and can release sparks.
The safest method is to steam or sauté on the stove.
Fruits with Hard Skin
The skin traps steam and can burst, in addition to altering taste and texture.
Always peel and cut into smaller pieces if you need to heat them.
Rice and Pasta Stored for Too Long
Cooked rice can contain the bacteria Bacillus cereus, which produces heat-resistant toxins.
Even heated, it can cause food poisoning.
The ideal is to store properly in the refrigerator and consume quickly.
As highlighted by Sheila Silva for TechTudo, not everything that seems harmless is safe in the microwave.
Knowing these risks protects your health, avoids accidents, and increases the durability of the appliance.
And you, have you ever made any of these mistakes in the kitchen? What was the most unusual or dangerous experience you have had with the microwave?
Share your story in the comments; it may help others avoid accidents.
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