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10
BEFORE USE
Microwave-safe utensils
never use metal or metal trimmed utensils when using microwave function
Microwaves cannot penetrate metal. They will bounce off any metal object in the oven and cause arcing, an alarming
phenomenon that resembles lightning. Most heat resistant non metallic cooking utensils are safe for use in your
oven. However, some may contain materials that render them unsuitable as microwave cookware. If you have any
doubts about a particular utensil, there's a simple way to find out if it can be used in the microwave.
Place the utensil in question next to a glass bowl filled with water when using microwave function. Microwave at
power HIGH for 1 minute. If the water heats up but the utensil remains cool to the touch, the utensil is microwave-safe.
However, if the water does not change temperature but the utensil becomes warm, microwaves are being absorbed
by the utensil and it is not safe for use when using microwave function. You probably have many items on hand in
your kitchen right now that can be used as cooking equipment in the microwave. Just read through the following
checklist.
dinner plates
Many kinds of dinnerware are microwave-safe. If in doubt consult the manufacturer's literature or perform the
microwave test.
glassware
Glassware that is heat-resistant is microwave-safe. This would include all brands of oven tempered glass cookware.
However, do not use delicate glassware, such as tumblers or wine glasses, as these might shatter as the food warms.
plastic storage containers
These can be used to hold foods that are to be quickly reheated. However, they should not be used to hold foods that
will need considerable time in the oven as hot foods will eventually warp or melt plastic containers.
paper
Paper plates and containers are convenient and safe to use when using microwave function, provided that the
cooking time is short and foods to be cooked are low in fat and moisture. Paper towels are also very useful for
wrapping foods and for lining baking trays in which greasy foods such as bacon are cooked. In general, avoid
coloured paper products as the colour may run. Some recycled paper products may contain impurities which could
cause arcing or fires when used in the microwave.
plastic cooking bags
Provided they are made specially for cooking, cooking bags are microwave safe. However, be sure to make a slit
in the bag so that steam can escape. Never use ordinary plastic bags for cooking in using microwave function, as
they will melt and rupture.
plastic microwave cookware
A variety of shapes and sizes of microwave cookware are available. For the most part, you can probably use items
you already have on hand rather than investing in new kitchen equipment.
pottery, stoneware and ceramic
Containers made of these materials are usually fine for use when using microwave function, but they should be tested
to be sure.
CAUTION
• Some items with high lead or iron content are not suitable as cooking utensils.
• Utensils should be checked to ensure that they are suitable for use in the microwave.
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