Health experts issue microwave safety warnings to prevent food poisoning

Health experts are warning families about the risks of uneven heating when using microwaves, which can lead to food poisoning. Dr. Mitzi Baum, CEO of Stop Foodborne Illness, recommends stirring, flipping, or turning food at least once during the heating process to ensure even heat distribution. To effectively reduce the risk of bacteria such as salmonella, listeria, and E. coli, food should be heated to a safe internal temperature of at least 165 degrees Fahrenheit (approximately 74 degrees Celsius).

Experts also advise against using microwaves to heat certain items, specifically infant formula or breast milk. Joan Salge Blake, a nutrition expert at Boston University, warns that microwaves can create hot spots in milk, posing a significant burn risk to infants. Additionally, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) notes that microwaving breast milk can destroy essential components.