Sharp R-23AM Guide, Useful Things To Know About Microwaves, Suitable Utensils, Testing Utensils

GUIDE

USEFUL THINGS TO KNOW ABOUT MICROWAVES

Microwaves set the water molecules contained in the food vibrating. The resulting friction generates heat that can be used to defrost or cook the food.

Food

The microwaves are absorbed by the food

Metals

should not, as a rule, be used in microwave ovens because microwaves cannot penetrate metals and reach the food inside.

There are, however, some exceptions: Small strips of aluminum foil can be used to cover parts to prevent them from defrosting or cooking too fast (e.g., chicken wings).

Metal

SUITABLE UTENSILS

Glass, Glass-ceramics and Porcelain Heat-resistant utensils made of glass, glass-ceramic or porcelain are suitable. However, the utensils must not contain metals (e.g., lead crystal) or be metal- plated (e.g., gold rim, cobalt blue).

Glass, Porcelain, Ceramics

Plastics, paper etc.

Microwaves pass through

Ceramics

are usually suitable but they must be enamelled. When using utensils that are not enamelled, moisture can be absorbed by the material and heat it up. This can cause the material to crack.

Plastics and Paper Dishes

Heat-resistant and microwave-proof plastic utensils or paper dishes are suitable for defrosting, heating and cooking. Please follow the manufacturer's in- structions.

Microwave Plastic Wrap

or heat-resistant wrap is suitable for covering and wrapping food. Please follow the manufacturer's in- structions.

Roasting Bags

can be used in microwave ovens. Do not close the bags with a metal clip because the clip may cause the bag film to melt. Close the bag with string and pierce it several times with a fork. Films that are not heat- resistant, e.g., films to retain product freshness are not recommended for use in microwave ovens.

Microwaves are reflected

Small metal skewers and aluminum trays (of pre- packaged food) may be used. However, they must be small in proportion to the food. Aluminum con- tainers, for example, must be filled to at least 2/3 to 3/4 with food. It is recommendable to transfer the food into microwave-safe containers.

When using aluminum trays or other metal utensils, they must be placed at least 2.0 cm away from the cavity walls. Otherwise the cavity walls may be dam- aged by sparking.

Do not use any utensils with metal-plating, metal parts or metal projections like screws, ribbons, or handles.

TESTING UTENSILS

Perform the following test if you are unsure whether a certain utensil is microwave-safe: Place the utensil into the oven, put a glass containing about 150 ml of water on or beside the utensil, and operate the micro- wave oven at 100% power for 1 to 2 minutes. If it is cool or luke-warm to the touch, the utensil is suitable for microwave use. Do not perform this test on plastic dishes because the plastic might melt.

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