Texas Food Managers Certification Practice Exam

What must meat cooked in a microwave oven undergo?

1. Kept uncovered during cooking

2. Allowed to stand uncovered for 1 minute after cooking

3. Heated to a temperature of at least 155 F

4. Rotated or stirred during cooking

The correct answer is: Rotated or stirred during cooking

When cooking meat in a microwave oven, it is crucial to ensure that the meat is heated evenly to eliminate any harmful bacteria. Stirring or rotating the meat during the cooking process helps to achieve uniform cooking, as microwave ovens can have cold spots where the temperature does not reach the required levels to kill pathogens. This step is particularly important for thicker cuts of meat or larger portions, as microwaves cook food from the outside in, potentially leaving the center undercooked if not properly oriented or moved. In addition to aiding in even cooking, rotating or stirring can also help improve the overall texture and quality of the meat by preventing it from becoming tough or rubbery due to uneven cooking. Properly ensuring that all parts of the meat reach a safe internal temperature is a key practice in food safety, which is why this step is essential when using microwave cooking methods.