Yes, You Can Microwave Metal
But before you do it, here are a few things to know:
1. Check your owner's manual
Most microwave guides will let you know whether you can safely use materials like aluminum foil, metal trays, and food packaging like popcorn bags. Always follow the advice specific to your oven.
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2. Use approved materials and containers
The USDA has a list of safe and unsafe containers for microwaving, as well as guidelines for cooking safely. You can use materials like aluminum foil safely in small quantities as long as your owner's manual gives the blessing. Make sure the foil is new and smooth, not crumpled. Don't try to heat any dinnerware with metal trim unless it is specifically designed for microwave use (Lenox, for example, has lines of microwave-safe china including some with gold trim). Also, avoid zapping takeout food containers with metal handles or twist ties. One big thing to avoid is arcing, which is when an electric current jumps from one piece of metal to another, such as from spot to spot on the gold rim of a dish or from peak to peak on crumpled foil. In addition to ruining your plate, arcing can potentially damage your oven or start a fire.
3. Use metal wisely
It's important to understand the role of metal in the microwave. It functions as a shield, blocking the waves emitted by the oven. For that reason, food manufacturers often use in it packaging to help foods cook more evenly by shielding one part of a dish. You can use small pieces of metal to prevent the corners of brownies or the ends of lasagna from overcooking.
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4. Follow your package food's instructions
Believe it or not, many packaged, microwavable foods rely on metal for a variety of functions. In popcorn bags, metal susceptors help promote even and thorough popping. Susceptors are also used in microwavable pizza packaging to help create a crispy crust. These metals are perfectly safe in the microwave, just make sure to cook according to the directions.
5. Err on the side of safety
If you're ever unsure about heating a dish in the microwave or don't feel safe, don't do it. Opt for glass or other materials you know can be nuked safely.
- By Paul Hope, Good Housekeeping Research Institute
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