The microwave is a convenient way to reheat leftovers, but not all foods are created equal when it comes to reheating. Some foods, when reheated in the microwave, can become unsafe to eat or simply taste terrible. Here are 6 foods you should not reheat in the microwave:
1. Eggs
Reheating eggs in the microwave can be dangerous, as it can cause them to explode. This is because eggs contain a lot of water, which can turn to steam when heated. The steam builds up inside the egg, and if the egg is not pierced before reheating, the pressure can cause it to burst.
2. Potatoes
Potatoes are another food that should not be reheated in the microwave. When potatoes are reheated, they can become dry and rubbery. This is because the microwave does not heat potatoes evenly, and the outer layers of the potato can become overcooked while the inside remains cold.
3. Rice
Rice is a food that is often contaminated with Bacillus cereus, a bacteria that can cause food poisoning. When rice is cooked, the bacteria spores are not killed. If the rice is then left at room temperature for more than 2 hours, the spores can multiply and produce toxins. Reheating rice in the microwave does not kill the toxins, so it is important to either eat rice immediately after cooking or store it in the refrigerator.
4. Chicken
Chicken is a good source of protein, but it is important to reheat it properly to avoid food poisoning. When chicken is reheated in the microwave, it is important to make sure that it is heated to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit. If the chicken is not heated to this temperature, it can still contain harmful bacteria.
5. Fish
Fish is another food that is often contaminated with bacteria. When fish is reheated in the microwave, it is important to make sure that it is heated to an internal temperature of 145 degrees Fahrenheit. If the fish is not heated to this temperature, it can still contain harmful bacteria.
6. Leftover soup
Leftover soup is a convenient meal, but it is important to reheat it properly to avoid food poisoning. When soup is reheated in the microwave, it is important to stir it frequently to ensure that it heats evenly. It is also important to reheat the soup until it is steaming hot.
These are just a few of the foods that you should not reheat in the microwave. If you are unsure whether or not a food is safe to reheat, it is always best to err on the side of caution and not reheat it.
Tips for Reheating Food Safely
Do not reheat food more than once.
Always reheat food to an internal temperature of 165 degrees Fahrenheit for chicken and 145 degrees Fahrenheit for fish.
Stir food frequently when reheating it in the microwave to ensure that it heats evenly.
Do not reheat food for longer than 2 minutes at a time.
Let food cool completely before storing it in the refrigerator.
By following these tips, you can help to ensure that your food is safe to eat when you reheat it.
