Anantheswaran says microwave popcorn pops differently because of such variables as brand of popcorn, brand of oven, quality of the kernels, quality of the bag, age of the product, and whether the product is salted. Joy Daniel, senior manager of product development for Sharp Electronics Corporation, explains that popcorn buttons differ in two ways. The manufacturers include more kernels to make sure the corn pops to a full bag every time. Daniel says paper towels are best for breads, rolls, and muffins. Wax paper works best for vegetables.
Lids are best for large quantities of dense foods.
The heat is absorbed differently depending on the size, shape, and composition of the food. Small cylindrical or spherical foods, such as hot dogs or potatoes, heat most evenly. Rectangular foods, such as packaged dinners, may heat less evenly because the microwaves are hitting the top and the sides, causing the corners to overcook. Removable glass trays and turntables are easy to clean. Carousel platforms allow more even heating as the food rotates within the oven.