The microwave is a kitchen staple, making it easy to reheat leftovers and cook meals in minutes. However, not everything belongs in the microwave. Some foods can become toxic, lose nutrients, or even explode when exposed to high heat.
Before you pop just anything into the microwave, take a look at this list of foods you should never microwave and learn the health risks, safety hazards, and better alternatives for reheating.
1. Hard-Boiled Eggs 🥚💥
Why It’s Dangerous
Microwaving hard-boiled eggs can lead to a mini explosion inside your microwave—or even worse, in your mouth! When eggs are heated, steam builds up inside the egg white, causing it to burst unexpectedly.
Better Alternative
- Reheat by placing the egg in hot water for a few minutes.
- Eat it cold for a protein-packed snack.
2. Processed Meats 🌭⚠️
Why It’s Dangerous
Microwaving processed meats, like hot dogs or bacon, can lead to the formation of harmful chemicals such as nitrosamines, which have been linked to an increased risk of cancer. Additionally, high heat can cause uneven cooking, leaving some parts overcooked and others undercooked.
Better Alternative
- Reheat in a skillet or oven for better texture and flavor.
- If using a microwave, place a cup of water inside to help absorb excess radiation.
3. Rice 🍚☣️
Why It’s Dangerous
According to food safety experts, leftover rice can harbor Bacillus cereus, a bacteria that produces heat-resistant spores. When microwaved, the heat may not kill all bacteria, increasing the risk of food poisoning.
Better Alternative
- Store cooked rice properly in the refrigerator within 2 hours.
- Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of water to ensure even heating.
4. Chicken 🍗🚫
Why It’s Dangerous
Microwaves heat food unevenly, meaning parts of your chicken may remain undercooked. This can leave behind harmful bacteria like Salmonella, which thrives in poultry.
Better Alternative
- Use an oven or stovetop for thorough reheating.
- If microwaving, cut chicken into smaller pieces and stir halfway through.
5. Breast Milk & Baby Formula 🍼🔥
Why It’s Dangerous
Microwaving breast milk or formula can create hot spots that may burn a baby’s mouth. It can also destroy essential nutrients in breast milk, reducing its health benefits.
Better Alternative
- Warm bottles in a bowl of warm water or use a bottle warmer.
- Shake the bottle and test the temperature before feeding.
6. Leafy Greens (Spinach, Kale, Celery) 🥬☢️
Why It’s Dangerous
Some leafy greens contain nitrates, which can turn into carcinogenic nitrosamines when exposed to high heat, increasing cancer risk.
Better Alternative
- Eat greens raw or steam them lightly on the stovetop.
- If reheating, do it quickly and at a low temperature.
7. Potatoes 🥔⚠️
Why It’s Dangerous
Cooked potatoes can develop Clostridium botulinum, a bacteria that thrives in low-oxygen environments. Microwaving doesn’t always kill these bacteria, which could lead to food poisoning.
Better Alternative
- Reheat potatoes in the oven or skillet instead.
- Store them properly in the fridge, not at room temperature.
8. Fish 🐟🤢
Why It’s Dangerous
Microwaving fish can leave behind an unpleasant smell that lingers in your kitchen. Additionally, it can cause protein breakdown, affecting both texture and taste.
Better Alternative
- Reheat in a covered pan on low heat.
- Use the oven at low temperatures to retain moisture.
9. Tomatoes & Tomato Sauce 🍅💣
Why It’s Dangerous
Microwaving tomatoes or tomato-based sauces can cause them to explode due to steam buildup. This can lead to messy splatters inside your microwave.
Better Alternative
- Heat sauce on the stovetop, stirring frequently.
- If using a microwave, cover with a paper towel to catch splatters.
10. Bread & Pastries 🥖🔥
Why It’s Dangerous
Microwaving bread can make it chewy and rubbery instead of crispy. The moisture inside bread evaporates quickly, ruining its texture.
Better Alternative
- Reheat in a toaster oven or air fryer for a crisp finish.
- Wrap bread in a damp paper towel for a softer texture.
Final Thoughts
While the microwave is a convenient kitchen tool, not all foods should be heated this way. Some can turn toxic, lose their nutrients, or even explode. Instead, try safer reheating methods like the oven, stovetop, or steam to preserve flavor, texture, and safety.
Did any of these surprise you? Let us know your thoughts in the comments! 🍽️✨