User Manual
4
Materials and Utensils in Microwave Oven
Tightly-closed containers could explode. Closed containers should be opened and plastic pouches pierced before
cooking. There may be certain non-metallic utensils that are not safe to use for microwaving. If in doubt, test utensil in
question with the following procedure:
1. Fill a microwave-safe container with 1 cup (250mL) of cold water along with utensil in question.
2. Cook on maximum power for 1 minute. Do not exceed 1 minute.
3. Carefully feel the utensil. If it is warm, do not use for microwave cooking.
For list of materials to use with microwave oven, please see below for proper handling:
Utensil
Notes
Aluminum Foil
For shielding only. Small, smooth pieces can be used to cover thin parts of meat or poultry to prevent
overcooking. Arcing can occur if foil is too close to oven walls. The foil should be at least 1 inch (2.5 cm)
away from oven walls.
Browning Dish
Follow manufacturer's instructions. Bottom of browning dish must be placed on ceramic board.
Incorrect usage may cause the ceramic board to break.
Dinnerware
Only if labeled "microwave-safe." Do not use cracked or chipped dishes.
Glass Jars
Always remove lid, and use only to heat food until warm. Most glass jars are not heat-resistant and
may break.
Glassware
Only if heat-resistant. Do not use cracked or chipped dishes, and make sure there is no metallic trim.
Oven Cooking Bags
Do not close with metal tie. Make slits to allow steam to escape.
Paper Plates and Cups Use for short-term cooking/warming only. Do not leave unattended while cooking.
Paper Towels
Use only to cover food for reheating and absorbing fat. Do not leave unattended while cooking.
Parchment Paper
Use only as a cover to prevent splattering or wrap for steaming.
Plastic
Only if labeled "microwave-safe." Some plastic containers soften as food inside gets hot. "Boiling bags"
and tightly closed plastic bags should be slit, pierced, or vented as directed by package.
Plastic Wrap
Only in labeled "microwave-safe." Use to to cover food during cooking to retain moisture. Do not allow
plastic wrap to touch food.
Thermometers
Only for use with meat and candy thermometers, and if labeled "microwave-safe."
Wax Paper
Use as a cover to prevent splattering and retain moisture.
For list of materials to avoid with microwave oven, please see below:
Utensil
Notes
Aluminum Tray
May cause arcing. Transfer food into microwave-safe dish.
Food Carton with Metal
Handle
May cause arcing. Transfer food into microwave-safe dish.
Metal or Metal-Trimmed
Utensils
Metal shields the food from microwave energy. Metal trim may cause arcing.
Metal Twist Ties
May cause arcing or start fire.
Paper Bags
May start fire.
Plastic Foam
May melt or contaminate the liquid inside when exposed to a high temperature.
Wood
Will dry out and split or crack.
