No, you should not microwave the oxygen absorber that comes in taco seasoning packets or any other food packaging. Oxygen absorbers are small packets containing iron powder and other ingredients that are designed to remove oxygen from the surrounding environment, helping to preserve the freshness and quality of the packaged food.
Microwaving the oxygen absorber can be hazardous and cause various safety issues for several reasons:
Fire hazard: The iron powder inside the oxygen absorber can potentially ignite or produce sparks when exposed to high heat like in a microwave. This could lead to a fire or cause damage to the microwave.
Release of harmful substances: The chemical reactions that occur when heating the oxygen absorber may release harmful fumes or substances that could contaminate the food or the microwave.
Damage to the microwave: Microwaving non-food items, especially those that are not microwave-safe, can cause damage to the microwave's interior or components.
To ensure the safety and quality of your food, it's essential to follow the instructions on the packaging. If you accidentally find the oxygen absorber in your taco seasoning or any other food packet, remove it before cooking or serving the food. And always remember that microwave usage should be limited to food and microwave-safe materials only.