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UTENSIL GUIDE FOR THE MICROWAVE
This section lists which utensils can be used in the microwave, which have limited
use, and which should not be used in the microwave at all.
SAFETY INFORMATION
CAN USE
CAN NOT USE
LIMITED USE
•
Microwave browning
dish
: For browning the
exterior of food such
as steaks, chops, or
pancakes. Follow the
directions provided with
your browning dish.
•
Microwaveable plastic
wrap
: For retaining
steam. Leave a small
opening for some steam
to escape. Avoid placing
it directly on the food.
•
Paper towels and
napkins
: To absorb
excess moisture and
prevent splattering.
Use for short-
term heating and
covering. Check for
manufacturer’s labels for
any special instructions.
•
Oven-proof glass, glass-
ceramic bowls and
dishes
: For use in the
microwave oven.
•
Paper plates and cups
:
For short-term heating
at low temperatures. Do
not use recycled paper,
which may contain
metal and could ignite.
•
Glass jars and bottles
:
Regular glass is too
thin to be used in a
microwave. It can
shatter, causing damage
and injury.
•
Paper bags
: These are
a fire hazard, they can
absorb heat and burn.
Only use popcorn bags
that are designed for
microwave use.
•
Styrofoam plates and
cups
: These can melt
and leave a harmful
chemical residue on
food.
•
Plastic storage and food
containers
: Containers
meant for cold storage,
such as margarine
tubs, can melt in the
microwave.
•
Metal utensils
: These
can damage your
microwave oven.
Remove all metal from
food and containers
before cooking.
•
Parchment paper
: Use
as a cover to prevent
spattering or as a wrap
for steaming.
•
Aluminum foil
: Smooth,
narrow strips of foil
may be used to shield
delicate areas on food
items like drumsticks
and wings to prevent
overcooking. Keep all
aluminum foil at least 1
inch from the side walls
and the door of the
microwave.
•
Ceramic, porcelain, and
stoneware
: Only if they
are labelled “Microwave
Safe”. If they are not
labelled, test them to
make sure they can be
used safely.
•
Plastic
: Use only if
labelled “Microwave
Safe”. Use with care
because the plastic can
soften from the heat
of the food and some
plastic can melt.
NOTE:
Using too much
foil can damage your oven.
NOTE:
Recycled paper may
contain metal which could
ignite so please be careful.
