Today, more than 90 percent of U.S. households own a microwave oven.
For some high-income homeowners, microwaves are one of the first things they look to replace in their kitchens. Steam and speed ovens are two alternatives that provide many of the same functions as microwaves at a higher quality. There also is a growing preference for the appliance to be hidden.
Three-adult households had even higher microwave penetration, with 95% owning one, while three-adult households with one or more children reported an ownership rate of 97%.
Unit sales have tumbled by 25% since 2000, and 40% since their peak, in 2004. The waning popularity of the American microwave deserves a closer look. For 40 years, Americans bought microwaves by the millions, and more of them each year.
Today, more than 90 percent of U.S. households own a microwave oven.
Are Over-the-Range Microwaves Out of Style? Over-the-range microwaves are ubiquitous. So much so that anyone born in the last few decades might not realize that over-the-range isn't the default place to put a microwave. After enjoying years of prevalence, this trend is finally dying off.
A survey has revealed microwaves to be the “nation's number one must-have kitchen gadget”, owned by up to 95% of households, said Xanthe Clay in The Telegraph. Yet they continue to be disparaged because of their association with ready meals and other ultra-processed food.
In an informal survey among 600 consumers from across Europe, the majority said they use the microwave mostly to reheat food leftovers and to thaw frozen food. Some also use it to heat milk and ready-made dishes.
In terms of the microwave owners in selected countries worldwide, Portugal takes up the first place in this ranking with 92 percent of consumers owning this type of electrical appliance.
While it may take some adjustment to get used to living without a microwave, it is relatively easy to do so. There is very little you can cook in a microwave that you cannot cook using something else in your kitchen, such as a stove or oven, with the exception of some microwave meals.
Most foodservice kitchens have at least one microwave oven in the cooking area and there may be one in the prep area too. But they don't always have a commercial microwave oven.
From reheating leftovers and defrosting ingredients to cooking entire meals from scratch in little time, the microwave is a seriously versatile piece of kit. Not only do they save both time and effort, cooking in a microwave can also save energy, and therefore cost, when compared to using the oven.
Which is better: an air fryer or a microwave? An air fryer is ideal for cooking healthier, crispy dishes, while a microwave is best for quick reheating and defrosting. Choose the appliance that aligns with your specific cooking needs and preferences.
Today, kitchen designers consider this essential appliance in every kitchen plan. You must take into account safety, convenience, and appearance when deciding where to put the microwave.
Microwaves are non-ionizing radiation, so they do not have the same risks as x-rays or other types of ionizing radiation. But, microwave radiation can heat body tissues the same way it heats food. Exposure to high levels of microwaves can cause skin burns or cataracts.
By 1986, roughly 25% of households in the U.S. owned a microwave oven, up from only about 1% in 1971; the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics reported that over 90% of American households owned a microwave oven in 1997.
Air Fryer/Toaster Oven
Both air fryers and toaster ovens are small convection ovens that circulate air around the food using fans, which makes them perfect to reheat things such as french fries, fried chicken of all sizes, and even phyllo pastry.
The main reason most people select an over-the-range (OTR) microwave is space. First, these microwaves free up counter space.
Available in vented and ventless options, range hoods are a worthwhile purchase if you want to replace your over-the-range microwave.
Is it Worth it to Have a Built-in Microwave? Whether a built-in microwave is right for you depends on your cooking needs and your kitchen configuration. For kitchens with limited counter space or multiple countertop appliances, you may want to consider a built-in microwave to keep your prep space open.
Despite the fact that the microwave is a natural fixture in many modern kitchens, it seems that there are very few people who use it for more than a few basic tasks. In an informal online survey among 600 Europeans, the majority said they use the microwave mostly to reheat food leftovers and to thaw frozen food.
September 2024
As one of the most useful appliances in any kitchen, it's no surprise that microwave ovens can be found in at least 90% of U.S. households, according to the Bureau of Labor and Statistics. That's why choosing the right one is so important.
Safer, Healthier Alternatives to Microwaving
Healthy alternatives include: 1 – Stovetop Heating: Anything you reheat in a microwave can be reheated on the stovetop. Add a splash of water to the pan with the food. Then, cover it with a lid and set it on the stove for a few minutes to warm through.