To make delicious dishes, we certainly need a variety of kitchen tools. Various types of kitchen utensils are made of various materials with different characteristics and functions. Therefore, it is important for us to understand the meaning of the symbols that are often found on kitchen tools. The kitchen is an area that has a lot to do with the use of fire, so a small mistake in the use of these tools can have fatal consequences.

In cooking, paying attention to the symbols on kitchen tools is crucial. These symbols provide instructions on the limitations of use, maintenance, and safety of an appliance. Therefore, let's get to know some of the symbols that are often encountered:

1. Food Grade

This symbol is often found on plastic food and beverage containers or packaging, such as lunch boxes, plates, cups, bottles, and other kitchen tools. This symbol with the image of a spoon and fork indicates that the material or product is safe for direct contact with food. The use of kitchen utensils with the food grade symbol ensures the safety of the food we consume. Conversely, if this symbol is crossed out, it indicates that the container or kitchen utensil is not recommended to be used for food and beverages, because the material of the utensil has the potential to contaminate food if it comes into direct contact.

2. Microwave Safe

This symbol indicates that the kitchen appliance is microwave safe. This symbol is often visualized through an image of a microwave or 3-4 waves. This symbol ensures that the appliance will not contaminate the heated food or damage the microwave. Whereas, if this symbol is crossed out, it indicates that the package is not compatible with the microwaves generated by the microwave to heat food.

3. Freezer Safe

This symbol indicates that certain tools or containers can be placed in the freezer without damaging or altering their quality. It is very important to keep food in optimal conditions in the freezer, so that the quality of your food is maintained. This symbol is identical to the image of a snowflake. Sometimes below the image of an ice flower, there is a maximum temperature degree that the container can withstand. If the symbol is crossed out, it means that the container is not allowed to be used for freezer use.

4. Dishwasher Safe

Nowadays, the use of dishwashers is increasing. However, unfortunately not all kitchenware can be washed in a dishwasher, some kitchenware is better washed manually by hand. This symbol can indicate that an item is dishwasher safe. The visualization of this symbol varies, ranging from a glass with water droplets, two dishes being rinsed in the dishwasher, or one dish and water droplets.