21
UTENSIL gUIDE
Only use utensils that are suitable for use in microwave ovens.
To cook food in the microwave oven, the microwaves must be able to penetrate the food, without being reflected
or absorbed by the dish used. Care must therefore be taken choosing the utensil. If the utensil is marked
microwave-safe, you do not need to worry. The following table lists various utensil and indicates whether and
how they should be used in a microwave oven.
: Recommended use
: Limited Use
: Not Recommended
C O O K I N G I N S T R U C T I O N S
U T E N S I L
S A F E
C O M M E N T S
Aluminium foil
Can be used in small quantities to protect areas against
overcooking. Arcing can occur if the foil is too close to
the oven wall or if too much foil is used.
Crust plate
Do not preheat for more than 8 minutes.
China and earthenware
Porcelain, pottery, glazed earthenware and bone china
are usually suitable, unless decorated with a metal trim.
Disposable polyester
cardboard dishes
Some frozen foods are packaged in these dishes.
Fast-food packaging
• Polystyrene cups containers
• Paper bags or newspaper
• Recycled paper or metal trims
Can be used to warm food. Overheating may cause
the polystyrene to melt.
May catch fire.
May cause arcing.
Glassware
• Oven-to-table ware
• Fine glassware
• Glass jars
Can be used, unless decorated with a metal trim.
Can be used to warm foods or liquids.
Delicate glass may break or crack if heated suddenly.
Must remove the lid. Suitable for warming only.
Metal
• Dishes
• Freezer bag twist ties
May cause arcing or fire.
Paper
• Plates, cups, napkins and Kitch-
en paper
• Recycled paper
For short cooking times and warming. Also to absorb
excess moisture.
May cause arcing.
Plastic
• Containers
• Cling film
• Freezer bags
Particularly if heat-resistant thermoplastic. Some other
plastics may warp or discolour at high temperatures.
Do not use Melamine plastic.
Can be used to retain moisture. Should not touch the
food.
Take care when removing the film as hot steam will
escape.
Only if boilable or oven-proof. Should not be airtight.
Prick with a fork, if necessary.
Wax or grease-proof paper
Can be used to retain moisture and prevent spattering.