The microwave oven is one of the most commonly used kitchen appliances in our daily lives. Although this device is considered convenient for quickly heating, cooking, or defrosting food to make it ready for use, it can sometimes lead to serious hazards. In particular, heating certain foods and packaging materials in the microwave can pose risks such as explosions, loss of food quality, or the formation of harmful substances. Therefore, as users, we must prioritize not only practicality but also safety.

Foods and Ingredients That Are Risky to Heat in the Microwave

Heating certain foods in a microwave carries serious health and safety risks. Such foods can either cause explosions or lead to the formation of harmful substances within them. Not every ingredient is compatible with the microwave’s heat distribution principle, and in some cases, the results can be unexpected. Below is detailed information about these risky foods.

Whole Eggs in Their Shell

Heating whole eggs in their shell in a microwave is extremely dangerous. The water molecules inside the egg begin to heat rapidly under microwave radiation and turn into steam. However, since the hard shell of the egg does not allow this steam to escape, internal pressure builds up. This can cause the egg to explode. Such explosions can dirty the inside of the microwave and, if the door is opened during heating, can cause serious injury to the user. Even if you remove the egg from its shell and heat it in a bowl, it is recommended to pierce or beat it beforehand.

Breast Milk or Baby Food

Breast milk and baby food are considered dangerous to heat in a microwave because the heat is not evenly distributed. Since the microwave does not distribute heat uniformly, some parts of the liquid may become very hot while others remain cold. This can cause burns in the baby’s mouth and throat area. Additionally, the process of microwave heating may break down some beneficial nutrients in the milk or food. Therefore, to heat baby food, it is recommended to use either a warm water bath or specially designed bottle warmers.

Fruits with Peels Still Intact

Heating whole fruits with their peels in the microwave can be hazardous. For example, apples, pears, or any fruits with a thin but fully covered peel may build up steam inside when microwaved, creating a risk of explosion. As internal pressure increases in such fruits, the peel may not withstand the pressure and suddenly burst. This can cause the microwave to get dirty and may pose a burn risk. If you wish to heat fruit, it is safer to slice and peel it beforehand.

Canned Meats (Unopened Cans)

It is strongly discouraged to microwave canned foods with unopened lids. Containers with metal lids or fully sealed packages do not allow microwaves to penetrate properly, and the resulting pressure build-up can cause explosions. Moreover, the interaction between metal and microwave radiation can generate sparks and even lead to fire. If you want to heat canned food, first open the can, place the contents in a microwave-safe dish, and ensure it is heated evenly.

Raw Hot Peppers (Especially Green)

Raw hot peppers, especially green ones, can cause very dangerous reactions when heated in a microwave. The compound capsaicin found in peppers can be released into the air under high heat, irritating the eyes, nose, and throat. This may cause breathing difficulties, watery eyes, and coughing in the kitchen where the pepper is heated. Additionally, in some cases, the pepper may explode after heating, contaminating the microwave and creating hazardous situations.

Leafy Greens (Spinach, Lettuce, etc.)

Leafy greens carry certain risks when heated in a microwave. These plants can cause the nitrates they contain to convert into harmful nitrites at high temperatures. These substances can have toxic effects on the body and may especially cause health problems in children. Additionally, leafy greens dry out very quickly and are sometimes prone to burning. Therefore, it is more appropriate to steam such products or use short-duration heating methods instead of microwaving them directly.

Frozen Fruits and Berries

Extra caution should be taken when heating frozen fruits and berries in a microwave. The water inside these products evaporates quickly under microwave radiation and may sometimes result in sudden explosions. Moreover, some of them heat unevenly — one part becomes very hot while another may still remain frozen. This can negatively affect the taste quality of the food and pose a risk during consumption. It is safer and more effective to thaw them naturally at room temperature before use.

Tips for Safe and Effective Microwave Use

When using a microwave, it is important to both preserve the quality of food and minimize safety risks. Inappropriate containers, unevenly heated ingredients, and sealed packaging can lead to serious consequences. To get the most benefit from this device, it is essential to follow usage instructions and stay cautious. The following tips will offer you a practical and safe approach in this regard.

Stir the Food Occasionally for Even Heating

It is a known fact that the microwave distributes heat unevenly. For this reason, stirring the food is an important step to ensure even heating. This is especially relevant for liquid and sauce-based dishes. Stirring helps the center of the food also become hot and ensures food safety. If food is not completely heated, harmful microorganisms may not be destroyed.

Check the Microwave Compatibility of Containers

The suitability of containers used in the microwave is very important. Containers with metal elements, aluminum foil, and some plastics can cause sparks in the microwave. This can lead to malfunctioning of the device or even fire hazards. Suitable containers are usually marked with the “microwave-safe” label and are heat-resistant. Transparent glass and ceramic containers are safer options.

Create Steam Vents in Foods at Risk of Exploding

Some foods may accumulate steam and build pressure inside when heated in the microwave. If no vent is created for this steam to escape, the food may suddenly explode, causing damage to both the microwave and its surroundings. This risk is especially present in unpeeled potatoes, tomatoes, and sealed containers. Therefore, it is recommended to poke holes in such items with a fork or keep the container slightly open before placing them in the microwave. This simple precaution both increases safety and contributes to the longevity of the appliance.

Keep the Microwave Clean at All Times

A clean microwave is both healthier and more durable. If food residue remains inside the microwave as a result of spillage or explosion, it can cause a burnt smell or smoke the next time it is used. These residues may even lead to the formation of bacteria and mold. For this reason, it is advisable to wipe the inside of the microwave with a damp cloth after each use and perform a more thorough cleaning once a week.