The Hidden Health Hazard Lurking in Your Office Microwave
Wafts of reheated fish might seem like the most toxic landmine in the office kitchen, but there are actually bigger hazards waiting in the microwave.
Experts say to beware of the office break room, and the microwave in particular, which may seem harmless but could actually get you sick.
"By 2 p.m., food debris from breakfast and lunch has built up inside, creating an invisible layer of contamination," says Sarah Jeffries, an instructor at Emergency First Aid at Work Course.
A Breeding Ground for Bacteria
According to experts, microwaves can be breeding grounds for bacteria. "At this point, the warmth and moisture make it a breeding ground for bacteria, meaning anyone reheating their meal is at a higher risk of foodborne illness," says Jeffries.
A 2012 study collected nearly 5,000 individual swabs from office buildings containing more than 3,000 employees and found that the dirtiest areas were break rooms and kitchens.
"People assume that bathrooms have the most germs," says Dr. Charles Gerba, a professor of virology at the University of Arizona. "A lot of studies have been done about the desktop work area, but the break room has been overlooked. Usually the break room is a germ transfer point in the workplace; people eat lunches there," he said. "You are dealing with an unregulated restaurant in a lot of ways."
Bacteria Found in Office Microwaves
A 2024 study found that microwaves in shared environments such as office break rooms often contain bacteria commonly found on human skin, like staphylococcus. Other bacteria frequently found in office microwaves include salmonella and E. coli. While all of this bacteria should be killed in high temperatures, uneven heating – a notorious issue with microwaves – can leave some areas of the food dangerously undercooked.
Minimizing the Health Risks
To minimize the health risks, Jeffries suggests doing the following when using the office microwave:
- Avoid reheating food after 2 p.m.
- Cover your food
- Stir and rotate halfway through heating
- Make sure it’s the right temperature
- Wipe it down before you use it
- Avoid high-risk foods
- Post a reminder
Conclusion
As Jeffries said, "Most people assume the office microwave is harmless, but without proper cleaning and safe reheating practices, it can quickly become a hidden health risk." By following these simple tips, you can reduce the risk of getting sick from your office microwave.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How often should I clean my office microwave?
A: It’s recommended to clean your office microwave daily, or at least after every use.
Q: What should I use to clean my office microwave?
A: Use a disinfectant wipe to clean your office microwave, paying special attention to the door handle, buttons, and inside walls.
Q: How can I avoid getting sick from my office microwave?
A: By following the tips above, including avoiding high-risk foods, reheating food properly, and cleaning the microwave regularly, you can reduce the risk of getting sick from your office microwave.
