9. Meat Thermometer.
Use a meat thermometer to check the
degree of cooking of joints and poultry only
when meat has been removed from the
microwave. If undercooked, return to the
oven and cook for a few more minutes at
the recommended power level. Do not
leave a conventional meat thermometer in
the oven when microwaving.
10. Paper, Plastic.
When heating food in plastic or paper
containers, keep an eye on the oven due to
the possibility of ignition. Do not use wire
twist-ties with roasting bags as arcing will
occur.
Do not use re-cycled paper products, eg
Kitchen roll unless they say they are
specifically designed for use in a microwave
oven. These products contain impurities
which may cause sparks and/or fires when
used.
11. Reheating.
It is essential that reheated food is served
“piping hot”.
Remove the food from the oven and check
that it is “piping hot”, ie steam is being
emitted from all parts and any sauce is
bubbling. (If you wish you may choose to
check the food has reached 72˚C with a
food thermometer – but remember do not
use this thermometer inside the
microwave.)
For foods that cannot be stirred, eg
lasagne, shepherds pie, the centre should
be cut with a knife to test it is well heated
through. Even if a manufacturerʼs packet
instructions have been followed always
check the food is piping hot before serving
and if in doubt return your food to the oven
for further heating.
12. Standing Time.
Standing time refers to the period at the end
of cooking or reheating when food is left
before being eaten, ie. it is a rest time which
allows the heat in the food to continue to
conduct to the centre, thus eliminating cold
spots. See page 11 and 18.
13. Keeping Your Oven Clean.
It is essential for the safe operation of the
oven that it is wiped out regularly. Use
warm soapy water, squeeze the cloth out
well and use to remove any grease or food
from the interior. Pay particular attention to
the door seal area and also the areas
around the microwave feed guide situated
on the right hand side of the cavity wall. The
oven should be unplugged when cleaning.
14. Utensils.
Before use check that utensils/containers
are suitable for use in microwave ovens.
See pages 13-14.
15. Babies Bottles and Food Jars.
When reheating babies bottles always
remove top and teat. Liquid at the top of the
bottle will be much hotter than that at the
bottom and must be shaken thoroughly
before checking the temperature. The lid
must also be removed from babies food
jars, the contents must also be stirred or
shaken before the temperature is checked.
This should be carried out before
consumption to avoid burns. See page 22.
16. Arcing.
Arcing may occur if a metal container has
been used accidentally or if the incorrect
weight of food is used. Arcing is when blue
flashes of light are seen in the microwave
oven. If this occurs, stop the machine
immediately. If the oven is left unattended
and this continues it can damage the
machine.
17. Maximum Weight on Turntable
The maximum weight that can be placed on
the turntable is 3 Kg (6 lb 10 oz) (this
includes total weight of food and dish).
Important Information – Read Carefully
