Microwaves are one of the most common kitchen appliances in the world. It’s likely that you have one at home and your neighbors probably have one too. Microwaves are indispensable for people who need to cook food quickly and efficiently. Despite their popularity, many people don’t really understand how microwaves work. Like many modern appliances, they seem to have always been there, but we rarely stop and think about how they really work. The reason microwaves are so popular is that they are so easy to use. All you have to do is put something inside the microwave, close the door, select your heat and time settings and press a button!
The History of Microwave Technology
Microwaves were first invented by the American engineer Percy Spencer in 1946. Percy Spencer is known as a pioneer of microwaves in the 20th century because he invented microwaves for industrial use. Percy Spencer was not the only one who worked with this technology in the past. Some other people who helped make microwaves what they are today include James C. Maxwell, Heinrich Hertz, Guglielmo Marconi, Nikola Tesla, and Sir William Henry Preece. These scientists all had something to do with creating electromagnetic waves. Raytheon Corporation developed the very first microwave oven in 1947 and it weighed over 750 pounds! It also took nearly 6 minutes to get to full power when cooking food. Today’s microwave ovens are much more advanced than before, so they can fit on your countertop and take less than a minute to reach a full power of microwave ovens.
How Does a Microwave Heat Food?
Microwaves use electromagnetic radiation (low levels) to transfer energy, creating heat that cooks and/or heats food or liquids. Microwaves use the “microwaves” to create an electric current in water molecules. When the microwave oven sends out these waves, they cause the molecules in whatever is inside it (food, for example) to vibrate rapidly. The movement of these molecules generates heat which cooks your food!
Microwave Ovens vs. Other Cooking Methods
Microwaves are one of the most popular cooking methods in the world. US studies reveal annual microwave oven sales of approximately 14 million units, with 90% of households owning one. Microwaves are quick, convenient, and don’t require you to use any additional fats or oils. Microwaves are a safe way to cook your food, as you’re using a self-contained unit versus an electric or gas stovetop that requires monitoring.
As a previous section mentioned, microwaves function by using electromagnetic waves to increase the molecules in your food rapidly. The heat generated from this vibration cooks your food. Unlike other cooking methods, there’s no need for an oven or stovetop. Microwave ovens also take up less space than other appliances, which can be helpful if you’re short on kitchen counter space. Microwaves can also thaw frozen food. You can use a microwave oven to thaw frozen items quickly without worrying about overcooking them. It’s important that you only thaw items for no more than 60 seconds at a time and then check on them every 30 seconds. The reason you want to do this is microwave heat or thaw settings range wildly from different models and brands. Additionally, microwaves don’t thaw food evenly, so you’ll want to rotate, turn over, etc. so it thaws evenly.
How to Use a Microwave Oven
Cooking food in the microwave is simple. If your food is pre-packaged, read the label to see what the recommended cook time is prior to starting. If you’re reheating food, one to three minutes is a general rule of thumb. The next step is to set the desired heat time on your microwave, place your food in the oven, set your desired time, close the door, and press start. Tip: always be sure to use a microwave-safe container to place your food in. Avoid plastic wrap and similar materials; studies show they release toxic chemicals when heated. Microwaves do a great job of cooking or heating quickly without drying out the food.
Potential Dangers and Downsides of Microwaves
The World Health Organization indicates that, when used properly, microwave ovens are safe. Yes, microwaves use low-frequency radiation, similar levels we see in light bulbs and radios, but the level is so low, studies indicate these levels are harmless. Some studies have shown that microwaving food reduces its nutritional value by causing nutrient loss. An example of this is flavonoids. Microwaving removes 97% of flavonoids from high-flavonoid foods such as broccoli; flavonoids are plant compounds with anti-inflammatory benefits. This figure equates to 33% more removal than steaming using water on a cooktop. However, recent studies have produced conflicting data surrounding this, so we suggest you do a deeper online study and draw your conclusion. It’s sort of like coffee. One year it’s the fountain of youth, and the next year it’s going to shorten your life.
Conclusion
Overall, we believe there is no reason not to use a microwave for cooking and heating food. There are hundreds of models, brands, and sizes to choose from. Before purchasing or upgrading, take some time to physically visit some stores that carry microwaves so you can see first what you may intend to buy. Popular microwave brands include Panasonic, GE, KitchenAid, and LG.
