Risks of Cooking With Halogen Heat
Table of Contents
Halogen ovens and stovetops are cooking appliances that are able to generate heat extremely fast. These ovens heat by releasing bursts of red light. Halogen moves heat through the air.
Sometimes this heat reaches the food directly and cooks it evenly without any conduction, while other times the heat strikes a cooking utensil and cooks in the same way those traditional stoves cook. While effective, halogen cooking devices sometimes have drawbacks.
Utensils
Halogen heat only works with cooking materials made out of magnetic materials, such as stainless steel and cast iron. Aluminum, copper and glass are not effective when using halogen heat, according to the Induction Site website. Therefore, those who have just installed a halogen oven might have to replace their pots and pans.
Strength
Some cooks think that halogen is not as strong as other kinds of cooking mediums and that pro gas ranges are much stronger, according to the Induction Site.
Radiation
Halogen heat may produce radiation hazards. The European Union investigated human immune system problems, cardiac effects, nervous system effects, neuralbehavioral effects, ocular effects, genotoxicity, carcinogenisis and problems with melatonin production, according to the Induction Site. According to the United States Department of Labor, this research is continuing, as of 2010.
Power Outage
Halogen cooking uses electricity. If there is an electrical power outage, the halogen cooking appliances will not be usable, according to the Induction Site. However, homeowners can use propane-powered backup generators for events in which the power goes out and the halogen appliance needs a different source of energy.
Lack of Flames
Halogen cooking does not produce flames, which makes it impossible for foods to be charred when cooking. However, the Induction Site maintains the lack of flames increases the safety of the halogen stove.
Price
Halogen can be more expensive when electricity prices go up. However, halogen heat becomes more affordable when gas prices go up or when electricity prices go down, according to the Induction Site.
Electric Shock
The halogen oven can cause an electric shock if the cord becomes wet. The appliance can also become dangerous if the electric plug becomes damaged, according to GE Housewares. The oven should not ever be immersed in water.
Burns
Halogen ovens are not likely to burn those who are using them because the actual oven itself does not generate heat but instead relies on the container to create heat. However, the food and the cooking utensils can still be hot, and those using the halogen oven can still accidentally burn themselves, according to GE Housewares. This is especially a problem when cooking with water or oils, since they can become heated and accidentally burn.
References
Writer Bio
Charles Pearson has written as a freelancer since 2009. He has a B.S. in literature from Purdue University Calumet and is currently working on his M.A. He has written the ebooks "Karate You Can Teach Your Kids," "Macadamia Growing Handout" and "The Raw Food Diet."
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