What you didn’t know about Microwave Ovens…

History of the Microwave: Dr. Percy L. Spencer of Massachusetts first experimented with radar in 1945. After noticing that a chocolate bar in his pocket melted, he wondered if microwave energy could be used for cooking. He experimented by popping corn with microwave molecules and soon realized the cooking possibilities were endless. He then filed a patent for a microwave oven that very same year. At first, microwave ovens were large and very expensive, but by 1947 they were modified, becoming practical for consumers. Today, microwave ovens are major appliances found in almost every kitchen around the world.

Benefits of Microwaves: Time Savings-cook 3-4 times faster than ovens Energy Savings—Used up to 14% electricity of conventional oven and less power for a shorter period of time No preheating Auto-turn off Quick and easy cleanup

Microwaves… So how do they work?

Because Microwave Ovens work like this… …Do this when cooking in a microwave oven: Microwaves cause molecules in food to vibrate. This creates heat that cooks food and heats the container. Use hot pads when removing containers

Because Microwave Ovens work like this… …Do this when cooking in a microwave oven: 2. Microwaves cannot go through metal. Use glass, ceramic, or plastic dishes that are microwave safe.

Because Microwave Ovens work like this… …Do this when cooking in a microwave oven: 3. Microwaves can heat unevenly. Rearrange and turn food while cooking.

Food Positions At least 1” apart 3 items 2 items 4 items 5 or more items

Because Microwave Ovens work like this… …Do this when cooking in a microwave oven: 4. Microwaves cook from the outside in. Stir foods during cooking.

Microwave Emission Microwaves are attracted to water, fat, and sugar molecules causing them to vibrate and heat Waves are then reflected off the sides and penetrate food in the process.

Because Microwave Ovens work like this… …Do this when cooking in a microwave oven: 5. A microwave oven has no heating element so you may use paper products. Paper towels and wax help reduce splatters.

Because Microwave Ovens work like this… …Do this when cooking in a microwave oven: 6. While cooking, heat gets inside the food. Food continues to cook once the microwave is turned off. Remove food before it is totally cooked. Allow food standing time, about 1 min. to finish cooking.

Because Microwave Ovens work like this… …Do this when cooking in a microwave oven: 7. Steam builds up inside foods and can cause them to explode. Pierce foods that have skins to let steam escape.

Because Microwave Ovens work like this… …Do this when cooking in a microwave oven: 8. Foods cook quickly, do not turn brown or crispy the microwave. Use sauces, herbs, or toppings to make pale food look better.

Because Microwave Ovens work like this… …Do this when cooking in a microwave oven: 9. It is not quicker to cook rice or noodles in a microwave oven. Use both the microwave and a regular stove for the best outcome.