Thinking about reheating those leftovers that have been sitting in the fridge?
Before you run over to the microwave and warm up that old carryout container, you may want to read this list.
Doing so can help you avoid running to the bathroom afterward, or worse yet, running to the doctor.
Many have heard the urban legends of eggs and grapes exploding in microwaves. While others have created crime scenes inside their microwaves with pasta sauce splatter. (Dexter himself would be proud of my work.)
One big issue is that microwaves don’t cook your food evenly.
Bacteria flourish when certain types of foods sit around too long. The uneven heating process of microwaves won’t kill all the bacteria and often can make it worse.
Radiation also changes the texture of some of these foods making them become hard and funky. While other foods can become rubbery or even slimy.
This isn’t just about keeping your microwave clean or avoiding rubbery chicken.
You also risk killing vital nutrients in your food.
In extreme cases, microwaving certain foods can change their composition and make them toxic or even poisonous.
Some microwaved foods can develop botulism. Others can create oxidized cholesterol, change protein compounds, or produce nitrites. Unsafe packaging can release carcinogens from plastics.
The following items either explode, smoke, create nasty germs or do some other crazy science voodoo when reheated in the microwave:
Eggs
Mushrooms
Processed Meats
Hot Peppers
Red Pasta Sauce
Grapes
Frozen Meat
Breast Milk
Rice
Chicken
Broccoli
Potatoes
Celery
Spinach
Beets
Also, avoid putting toothpicks, styrofoam, and metal dishes into your microwave as those things can start a fire. And, be sure to heat using microwave-safe dishes and containers.
While some still avoid the witchcraft of microwaves, they are safe when used properly.
Have you ever reheated something and became sick? Did we miss anything? Share your stories to prevent other people from experiencing the same issues.