Myths and Microwaves

Debunking the two common myths about microwaved meals

JOHANNESBURG, South Africa – 14 March, 2019 – We all know microwaves make cooking a breeze and it helps save those minutes, we rarely have enough of these days. However, some people do have those lingering doubts about whether microwaving food destroys nutrients or that it emits harmful radiation. However, the truth is a lot more comforting and positive.

“The microwave makes life so much easier. It’s human-centred technology at its most helpful. The Samsung Hotblast™ for example, has revolutionary functions, which are tailor-made to create fast, tasty and healthy meals in minutes, “says Tracy Gordon, Head of Product – Home Appliances at Samsung South Africa.

A recent article by Harvard Health Publishing^* claims stated that “microwave ovens cook food using waves of energy that are remarkably selective, primarily affecting water and other molecules that are electrically asymmetrical. Microwaves cause these molecules to vibrate and quickly build up thermal (heat) energy.” The article debunks two common myths about microwaving food.

Myth 1: Microwaving kills nutrients

Whether in a microwave or a regular oven, some nutrients, including vitamin C, do break down when exposed to heat. However, the fact is, cooking with a microwave might be better when it comes to preserving nutrients because it takes a shorter time to cook. Additionally, as far as vegetables go, cooking them in water robs them of some of their nutritional value because the nutrients seep out into the cooking water,” states the report by Harvard Health Publishing. And according to the World Health Organisation (WHO)^**, food cooked in a microwave oven is as safe and has the same nutrient value, as food cooked in a conventional oven.

Myth 2: Microwaving food can give you cancer

The American Cancer Society (ACS)^*** says that microwaves do not make food radioactive. Microwaves heat food but they do not change the chemical or molecular structure of it. In fact, there is absolutely no evidence that microwaves pose a health risk to people when used appropriately, the organisation added.

With those myths well busted, it’s comforting to know you can make full use of one of the kitchen’s most convenient appliances. And when the time comes to use your microwave to whip up a tasty meal in no time, you can trust the Samsung Hotblast™ to do the job. It’s simple to cook entire meals deliciously and in no time. The HotBlast™ has multiple air holes blowing out powerful hot air, which reduces cooking time. The SLIM FRY™ technology ensures that your food is perfectly crisp on the outside and delicious and juicy on the inside. Additionally, this versatile microwave has a wider grill, making it easier to brown food fast and evenly. The turntable is wider, measuring 345mm, making it easier to prepare bigger portions of food. And with its ECO Mode power it significantly reduces energy consumption with its low standby power.

The HotBlast™ is a must-have for every kitchen. Its intelligent features and stylish design makes it indispensable and as we now know – a safe, healthy way to enjoy a meal.

Sources

^{*https://www.health.harvard.edu/staying-healthy/microwave-cooking-and-nutrition
**https://www.who.int/peh-emf/publications/facts/info_microwaves/en/
*** https://www.cancer.org/cancer/cancer-causes/radiation-exposure/radiofrequency-radiation.html}