Question from photobee
Hello Debra, I have enjoyed reading your books. I wanted to get the most recent information on the dangers of microwave ovens, but have not found anything in “Toxic Free” or on this site. Just the fact that you don’t use a microwave. I would really like to hear the information that helped you to come to this decision. I really would not like to take chances when it comes to radiation. However, I had been led to believe that microwaves are very safe.
Debra’s Answer
Here is an article I wrote I think about five years ago that used to be on my website, but it didn’t get transferred over to the new site. I haven’t done any new research since on this subject, but have no reason to believe they are any safer now.
MICROWAVE OVENS
Microwave ovens are certainly convenient, but are they safe?
While there is not enough evidence to require warning labels on microwave ovens, or to remove them from the market, there is concern both about the safety of our exposure to microwaves and the healthfulness of microwaved food.
THE DANGERS OF MICROWAVES
Even microwave ovens that are functioning perfectly emit microwaves. Safety standards set by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) allow microwave emissions of up to one milliwatt per square centimeter (1mW/cm2) when the oven is purchased, and up to 5mW/cm2 after the oven has been in use. Studies on industrial exposure recommend that daily exposure should not exceed one milliwatt for more than one minute. Average home use of microwave ovens far exceed this.
