Negative Effects of Using the Microwave

Microwaves Leak Electromagnetic Radiation

• One concern with microwaves -- as well as with cell phones, computers, and power lines -- is the risk of electromagnetic radiation. High levels of exposure increase cancer rates and cause other health problems. However, the FDA limits the amount of electromagnetic radiation produced by microwaves to a miniscule amount, and the appliances must have two separate interlocking mechanisms to stop the microwave as soon as the door is opened. Mark Connelly of "Consumer Reports" states that most microwaves are safe, but since they do wear out over a period of time, concerned consumers can purchase $20 testing kits to check for possible microwave radiation leaks.

Microwaves Leak Dioxin Into Food

• When food is wrapped in plastic or put in a plastic container and then placed in the microwave, there is a concern that chemicals are leaked from the plastic into the food. Plastics contain dioxin, and the Environmental Protection Agency has concluded that dioxin "is carcinogenic to humans." However, the Food and Drug Administration must test, review and approve plastic material used for microwave usage and it has not found evidence that these containers are harmful when microwaved. Consumers concerned about plastic leakage should transfer food to glass or ceramic containers before heating.

Microwaves Don't Cook Food to a Safe Level

• Food is not always cooked uniformly in a microwave, and consuming raw or undercooked food can lead to food poisoning. The Center for Science in the Public Interest warns that some microwavable food manufacturers may instruct the consumer to heat food for a length of time that is not sufficient to thoroughly cook the item For example, the product packaging may state that a pot pie should be microwaved for four minutes, but even after six or seven minutes, the interior of the pie may be 148 degrees Fahrenheit, far below the 165 degree Fahrenheit internal temperature recommended for poultry. However, using a thermostat with microwaved food can ensure it is cooked thoroughly.

Microwaves Cause Water to Explode

• A cup of water boiled in the microwave has the potential to explode, according to an article in the "The Daily Green" entitled "Eleven Surprising Facts and Myths About Microwave Ovens." When water is microwaved too long in a glass or ceramic container it becomes "superheated" and any disruption -- like moving the container or placing something else in it -- causes the water to erupt from the container. This results in scalding issues and may cause sweltering and blisters. However, you can avoid this danger by not heating water any longer than necessary.