Hello, I am a new member. This is my first discussion. So if I have an allergy to peanuts, is it unsafe for me to use a microwave that was previously used to cook a product containing peanut butter?
I have a deadly allergy to peanuts; however, I think I have a lower level of sensitivity because I do not recall ever having reacted to the smell of peanut butter. Sometimes I am afraid that I will, after talking to someone whose breath smells of it, or having a snickers bar waved in my face by someone who does not know it is death to me. I've never once reacted to the smell on breath or the close proximity of a snickers bar.
SO back to my question, maybe it is OK for me and not for someone else, but I wonder if a peanut butter and jelly sandwich for example, was placed in the microwave, would that contaminate any food that was placed in the microwave afterwards?
Question of the Week: Answered!
Every week, PeanutAllergy.com answers one of the questions posted in our community.
Our Answer:
Welcome to our community! Your concern is understandable considering the severity of your peanut allergy as well as the fact that airborne particles can potentially cause a reaction.
An allergic reaction occurs when peanut proteins are attacked by the body’s immune system. The proteins must be present for a reaction to occur. Typically, it is rare for airborne proteins to cause a reaction. You can read more about whether airborne particles can affect you here.
On that note, it is better to be safe and avoid exposure whenever possible. Cleaning your kitchen and microwave to prepare for safe cooking is important. Hot water and soap can do a lot to remove peanut contaminants from dishes and other items. Here are a few other tips on cleaning areas that have previously been contaminated.
If the microwave you’re using is at work and you are wondering about your rights as an employee with peanut allergies, more information can be found here. You have a right to request a safe work environment, and it may be easier for them to accommodate your allergy if you let them know what you need.
We asked our Facebook community for their opinions, and you can see what they said here.
We wish you the best and hope our site is helpful for you!
I am also anaphylactic to peanuts, and have never had a reaction due to using a public microwave or fridge at school or work. You have to use good judgement though... if you open a microwave and it reeks of peanut butter, don't use it. I dont know who would be microwaving a pb&j sandwich anyways, but you never know. If I have to heat up my food at work or school I use a sealed container that won't allow anything else to get in to my food. Hope this helps!