Microwaves have been around for quite some time and offer a quick, convenient way to heat up food or beverages. Despite their versatility, microwaves cannot heat up certain foods (or the containers they come in) safely. Many people are unaware of items they are not supposed to heat up in a microwave, causing accidents.
Here is a list of foods or items you should never heat in a microwave:
• Chinese take-out containers. These containers have a metal handle and when heated in the microwave, could cause a flame. Never place any metal like utensils, cookware or containers in the microwave.
• Paper or plastic lunch bags. While they may seem harmless, paper bags, plastic bags or newspapers should never be heated in the microwave. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), these items are not sanitary, can emit toxic fumes and even cause a fire.
• Plastic containers. Plastic containers for yogurt, margarine or sour cream are intended for one-time use and should never be used in the microwave. These containers are not designed to withstand high heat and can warp or melt in the microwave, releasing chemicals into your food. Only hard plastic containers labeled for safe microwave use should be used.
• Travel mugs. Many travel mugs are not microwave safe. If your travel mug is made form stainless steel do not place it in the microwave. The stainless steel will block the heat from warming up your beverage and instead can damage the microwave. If it’s a plastic mug, check to see if it’s microwave safe.
• Aluminum foil. This one may seem like common sense but accidents still happen. Leaving aluminum foil in the microwave could start a fire.
• Hot peppers. Putting hot peppers in the microwave may cause them to catch on fire. When you open the microwave door after heating the hot peppers, the chemical that’s released from them will sting your eyes and burn your throat.
• Fruit. While some fruit may be able to withstand the heat, some do not. Grapes are a fruit that cannot handle heat. In the microwave grapes will explode and raisins will smoke.
If you or someone you know has been involved in a car crash or truck accident in Detroit, Grand Rapids, Warren, Sterling Heights, Lansing, Flint, Ann Arbor, Livonia, Dearborn, Canton, Westland, Troy, Farmington Hills, Southfield, Waterford or any other city in Michigan, make sure to contact Motor City Accident Attorneys by calling 1-800-411-PAIN. Motor City Accident Attorneys know how stressful a car accident can be and want to help you get back on your feet. They will fight tirelessly for your rights and help you get the compensation you deserve, according to your specific case. Make sure to follow Motor City Accident Attorneys on Twitter (@MCAccidentAtty) and Facebook. Join the conversation by using #MCAA.
