Microwaves - Advantages and Disadvantages Flashcards
List the advantages of a microwave.
6
Reduces electricity bills
Cooks food faster than an oven
Retains the nutritional value and sensory characteristics
Ideal for busy lifestyles
Useful for defrosting food
Simple to use
How does the microwave reduce electricity bills?
It uses less electricity than an oven as It operates on a much lower wattage, reducing electricity bills
How does a microwave retain the nutritional and sensory value of foods?
As they cook foods quickly and in very little water
How is the microwave ideal for busy lifestyles?
As it reheats food quickly
How are microwaves useful for defrosting?
It is useful for defrosting meat that was not taken out of the freezer in time for a meal
How is the microwave being simple considered an advantage?
As individuals just have to input the power level and the cooking time required
List the disadvantages of a microwave.
4
Food does not brown
Unsuitable to cook large amounts of food
Reheated food cools more quickly than oven reheated food
Food poisoning may occur
How is the fact that food does not brown in microwave considered a disadvantage?
Conventional ovens so not brown food which makes them unsuitable for certain food such as pastry
How is a microwave unsuitable for cooking large amounts of food?
As it takes too long to cook
How can food poisoning occur?
2
Food poisoning may occur if the appropriate standing time is not observed when heating food, e.g. ready meals
This is especially dangerous for children, the elderly or pregnant women
