What should be done to microwave food after cooking according to safety standards?

After cooking food in a microwave, it is essential to cover, stir, and rotate the food to ensure even heating. Microwaves often heat food unevenly, leading to hot spots that can cause burns or not adequately heat certain portions, leaving them at unsafe temperatures. Covering the food helps trap steam, which can help eliminate bacteria in the food and promote even cooking.

Stirring the food allows for better distribution of heat, further enhancing the safety and quality of the meal. Additionally, rotating the food helps to balance the heating process, minimizing the risk of cold spots where harmful microorganisms may survive. These practices are crucial to ensuring food safety and preventing foodborne illnesses.

While letting food cool or reheating to specific temperatures are important safety practices, covering, stirring, and rotating specifically address the unique challenges of microwave cooking and help ensure that food is safely prepared and served. Serving immediately without cover may expose the food to contaminants and does not address the need for even cooking and reheating.