Yes, microwaves are safe. Essentially, microwaves don’t make foods radioactive. They just heat them! It has never been proven that microwaves cause any harm through the foods we cook with them and therefore you shouldn’t worry every time you want to heat up that pot of soup or those leftover baked beans, as long as you follow the instructions of use that came with your microwave. Microwaves are non-ionising radiation, so they do not have the same risks as x-rays or other types of ionising radiation.

when was the microwave invented?

American military engineer Percy Spencer, working in his lab testing magnetrons at defence contractor Raytheon, noticed that a chocolate bar in his pocket had melted. Spencer realized that food could perhaps be cooked using radar waves and designed a box that isolated the electromagnetic waves and heated the food that was put in there. The American appliance company Tappan Group, later acquired by Electrolux in 1979, licensed the patent from Raytheon and introduced the first microwave for the home in 1955.

does microwave kill bacteria?

Yes, microwaves kill bacteria by heating water molecules in them, causing proteins and DNA to denature and cells to rupture. However, for effective sterilisation of food or other items, the entire mass must reach a sufficient temperature for a long enough period, which can be potentially challenging due to uneven heating. To ensure bacteria are killed, you should stir or rotate food, ensure it reaches 74°C, and use a food thermometer.

what is a combi microwave?

A combi microwave is a microwave, with a standard turntable, with additional cooking functions, and the ability to combine both heat and microwave function to reduce cooking time.

Microwaves

Save space on your kitchen worktops and prepare delicious meals with ease using a built-in microwave. Choose an integrated microwave for versatile functionality and a seamless, professional finish. Browse our range of cooking appliances.

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Frequently asked questions about microwaves

Yes, microwave ovens are safe when used correctly and according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Microwaves use non-ionising radiation to heat food; they do not make food radioactive. The food absorbs microwave energy, which causes water molecules to vibrate and generate heat.

As with any cooking appliance, it’s important to follow the instructions for use, use microwave-safe containers and avoid using a microwave if the door, hinges, seals or latch are damaged
The microwave oven was developed after engineer Percy Spencer, working with magnetron technology at Raytheon, noticed that microwaves could heat food. Raytheon’s first commercial microwave oven, the Radarange, was sold in 1947, and Tappan later licensed the technology from Raytheon to develop one of the first microwave ovens designed for home use
Yes, microwaves kill bacteria by heating water molecules in them, causing proteins and DNA to denature and cells to rupture. However, for effective sterilisation of food or other items, the entire mass must reach a sufficient temperature for a long enough period, which can be potentially challenging due to uneven heating. To ensure bacteria are killed, you should stir or rotate food, ensure it reaches 74°C, and use a food thermometer.
A combi microwave is a microwave, with a standard turntable, with additional cooking functions, and the ability to combine both heat and microwave function to reduce cooking time.

Microwave ovens – a convenient kitchen shortcut

AEG microwave ovens make everyday cooking quick and convenient. Whether melting chocolate, defrosting a meal or reheating leftovers, they help deliver consistent results with ease. Available in sleek white, black or stainless-steel designs, choose from built-in and freestanding options to suit your kitchen.

Quick Defrost
Select the food type and weight, and your AEG microwave calculates a suitable defrosting time to help protect flavour and texture.

Personalised cooking
Save your favourite microwave settings for one-touch convenience with the memory function.

Grill and steam
Use the Grill function for grilled-style results, or Steam Cooking to help preserve moisture, texture and flavour.

Compact and spacious models
Choose from compact models under 45cm for smaller spaces, or larger 29-litre options for added cooking flexibility.

Browse all AEG cooking appliances