The microwave oven has become a popular kitchen appliance in recent years, and it’s easy to understand why: it’s quick, easy, and convenient.

However, while microwaving may seem like the best option for cooking or reheating food, there are certain foods that you should avoid microwaving. In this article, we will detail 30 foods that you should never put in the microwave.

Foods to Avoid Microwaving

Here are 30 foods that you should avoid microwaving:.

#1 Hard-boiled eggs

Hard-boiled eggs should never be microwaved, as they can explode in the microwave due to the steam that builds up inside the egg as it heats up. This can cause serious injury or damage to your microwave.

#2 Fried food

Microwaving fried food can cause it to become soggy and lose its crispiness, which can significantly impact the taste and texture of the food.

#3 Whole apples

If you want to heat up an apple, it’s best to slice it first as whole apples can cause steam to build up inside, thus causing it to explode.

Sliced apples, on the other hand, can be microwaved safely with a bit of cinnamon sprinkled on top to add flavour.

#4 Breast milk

Microwaving breast milk can cause hot spots which may burn your baby’s mouth. It’s better to use a bottle warmer or to warm it up in a bowl of warm water.

#5 Grapes

Just like with whole apples, grapes can explode while being microwaved, so it’s best to avoid doing so. But placing grapes within the context of food to avoid microwaving can sound bizarre.

#6 Hot peppers

If you microwave hot peppers, the capsaicin (the compound that makes peppers spicy) can turn into a gas, which can cause irritation to your nose, throat and eyes. It’s best to cook them in a frying pan or a slow cooker instead.

#7 Frozen meat in its packaging

When you microwaves frozen meat in its packaging, it can release harmful chemicals that can contaminate your food and cause several health problems.

#8 Yogurt cups

When you microwave yogurt cups, the high heat can cause the plastic container to melt and mix with the yogurt, which can be toxic if ingested.

#9 Pasta

Microwaving pasta can cause it to become dry and hard rather than soft and tender. Instead, reheat it on a stove with a splash of water or sauce.

#10 Bread

Microwaving bread can cause it to become dry and hard rather than soft and fluffy. Instead, sprinkle a bit of water on it and heat it in a toaster or oven, to retain the taste and texture.

#11 Frozen fruit

Microwaving frozen fruit can cause it to lose its flavour and texture. Instead, let it thaw naturally at room temperature for 15-30 minutes before consuming it.

#12 Aluminium foil

Never microwave aluminium foil, as it can cause sparks and fire in your microwave, which can be extremely dangerous.

#13 Plastic containers

When you microwave food in plastic containers, chemicals from the plastic can seep into your food, which can be harmful to your health. Instead, use microwave-safe glass or ceramic containers to heat your food.

#14 Microwave popcorn

While microwave popcorn may seem like a convenient snack, it is often coated with unhealthy additives and chemicals that are released during heating. Instead, buy organic popcorn kernels and pop them on the stovetop.

#15 Margarine

Microwaving margarine can cause it to melt unevenly, which can result in a strange texture. Instead, use a saucepan to melt it slowly.

#16 Frozen vegetables

While it may be tempting to microwave frozen vegetables, this can cause them to become overcooked, which can result in a mushy texture and flavour. Instead, cook them on a stove with a bit of butter and water.

#17 Paper bags

Never microwave paper bags, as they can catch fire when heated. If you want to microwave popcorn, use microwaveable bags that are designed specifically for this purpose.

#18 Mushrooms

If you microwave mushrooms, they can release their moisture, which can cause them to shrink and become rubbery. Instead, cook them in olive oil on a frying pan.

#19 Grains

Microwaving grains such as rice can cause them to become dry and flavourless. Instead, reheat them on a stove with a bit of water or broth.

#20 Raw chicken or meat

When you microwave raw chicken or meat, it can cook unevenly, which can cause harmful bacteria to survive and cause food poisoning. Always cook meat thoroughly in an oven or on a stove to ensure it is safe to eat.

#21 Bacon

Microwaving bacon can cause it to become rubbery and lose its flavour. Instead, cook it on a frying pan or in an oven to get the crispy texture and taste.

#22 Tofu

Microwaving tofu can cause it to become dry and tough to chew. Instead, cook it on a frying pan or in an oven to retain the flavour and texture.

#23 Spaghetti squash

When you microwave spaghetti squash, it can become mushy and unappetizing. Instead, cook it in an oven or on a stove to get the al dente texture and flavour.

#24 Wine

When you microwave wine, it can boil and create steam that can cause burns or damage to your microwave. Instead, heat it on a stove or in a slow cooker if you want to warm it up for cooking.

#25 Tomatoes

When you microwave tomatoes, they can become mushy and lose their flavour. Instead, cook them in an oven with a bit of olive oil and seasoning to bring out the rich taste and texture.

#26 Raw flour

When you microwave raw flour, it can burn and create lumps that can ruin your recipe. Instead, use a saucepan to heat the flour over low heat until it becomes light brown in colour and fragrant in aroma.

#27 Sausages

Microwaving sausages can cause them to become dry and chewy in texture. Instead, cook them on a frying pan or grill to get the juicy and tasty flavour.

#28 Lasagna

When you microwave lasagna, it can become rubbery and lose its flavour. Instead, heat it in an oven or on a stove with a bit of sauce and cheese to get the classic Italian dish that you love.

#29 Butter

Microwaving butter can cause it to melt too quickly, which can result in a messy and greasy texture. Instead, use a saucepan to melt it slowly and use a wooden spoon to stir it until it becomes smooth and creamy.

#30 Rice cakes

Microwaving rice cakes can cause them to become hard and unappetizing. Instead, toast them in a toaster oven with a bit of honey and cinnamon to get a delicious and healthy snack that you can enjoy.

Conclusion

While microwaving may seem like the most convenient cooking option, it’s important to know which foods you should avoid microwaving to maintain their quality and safety.

By following this list of 30 foods to avoid microwaving, you can ensure that your food is tasty, healthy and safe to eat.