Microwave heating in food processing

Are microwave ovens safe? When used according to manufacturers’ instructions, microwave ovens are safe and convenient for heating and cooking a variety of foods . However, several precautions need to be taken, specifically with regards to potential exposure to microwaves, thermal burns and food handling.

The principle of microwave cooking is conversion of electromagnetic energy into thermal energy within meat . During cooking, microwave energy is absorbed by rotation of water molecules and translation of ionic components in meat; the water content and the dissolved ion content are, therefore, important factors.

A microwave oven (commonly referred to as a microwave) is an electric oven that heats and cooks food by exposing it to electromagnetic radiation in the microwave frequency range. This induces polar molecules in the food to rotate and produce thermal energy in a process known as dielectric heating .