MICROWAVES

High-Tech Convenience

It’s no secret that microwaves tend to be better for reheating than for cooking. That’s because the typical microwave technology cycles the waves on and off, which all too often can result in under- and overcooked areas.

Now, with the use of inverter technology, microwave ovens can cook more like the real thing. One well-rated product with this feature is the Panasonic inverter microwave oven. The inverter allows for more consistent, faster heating, so food is cooked at the desired level without cycling.

Microwaves use a lot of energy, but because they cook quickly, they can cut energy use by up to 80 percent compared to a conventional oven. And because they generate less heat in the kitchen, they avoid the need for additional cooling from an A/C during warm months.

But are microwaves safe? A federal safety standard limits the amount of waves that can leak from an oven throughout its lifetime to a level considered far below that known to harm people. If you’re concerned, just take a few steps back. Microwave energy decreases dramatically as you move away from the oven. The government standard also requires all ovens to have two interlock systems that stop the production of microwaves the moment the latch is released or the door opened.