The reason why the box of fish sticks advises against cooking them in a toaster oven is likely due to safety and cooking performance concerns.
Safety: Toaster ovens are typically smaller and more compact than traditional ovens. Cooking fish sticks in a toaster oven might lead to the product being closer to the heating elements. Since fish sticks are frozen and may contain some level of moisture, they can potentially produce splatters or drips that could cause smoke or even minor fires when they come into contact with the toaster oven's heating elements.
Uneven Cooking: Toaster ovens usually have different heating elements, and their heat distribution may not be as even as that of a standard oven. This uneven cooking could result in some parts of the fish sticks being overcooked or burnt while others are undercooked.
Package Integrity: The packaging of fish sticks is designed and tested for use in conventional ovens, and cooking them in a toaster oven may cause the packaging to melt or become damaged, potentially contaminating the food.
Cooking Time and Temperature: Toaster ovens may have different temperature settings, and cooking times may vary compared to conventional ovens. Cooking fish sticks at the wrong temperature or for the wrong duration could affect the taste and texture of the final product.
To ensure safe and optimal cooking, it's best to follow the instructions provided on the packaging. If you don't have access to a regular oven, consider other cooking methods, such as pan-frying or using a microwave, if appropriate for the type of fish sticks you have purchased. Always prioritize safety and adhere to the manufacturer's guidelines to avoid accidents or disappointment with the end result.