The microwave was a great invention that helps those of us who are constantly on the move or who just need something quick, easy and right now. But there are just some things that should not be reheated in the microwave because it hurts you more than you know.
1. Broccoli
Cooking broccoli on a plate with water can mean that a lot of the nutrients end up being lost.
Andrew D Scott, the owner of Victus Consultancy, says, ‘Broccoli cooked in a microwave with some water loses up to 97% of its beneficial antioxidants.
There’s a solution, though – instead, microwave the broccoli in a covered dish, with less fluid, and it should retain more antioxidants.
2. Anything In A Plastic Container
You know you shouldn’t pop plastic leftover containers in there, but you still do. Here’s why that’s bad: Many plastics contain estrogen-like chemicals (BPA is a well-known one) that can leach into your food when the plastic is heated.
In a study published in Environmental Health Perspectives, 95 percent of 450 plastic products (such as baby bottles, zipper-top bags, and containers) tested released chemicals that acted like estrogen after they were microwaved, washed in a dishwasher, or soaked in water. Even products labeled “BPA-free” released estrogen-like chemicals. Better to be safe and warm up your dinner directly on a plate.
RELATED: With PFAS in Packaging, How Safe Is Microwave Popcorn?
3. Meat
Using the microwave to defrost food is a no-no – as it tends to damage the meat as it warms up. the best way to do it is to use water.
Seal the food properly in plastic, and it warms up faster using water (because water is more conductive) – meaning it tastes better.
Also, how you cook, store, and reheat processed meat can contribute to the production of cholesterol oxidation products, which can be more