Why were people afraid to cook food in microwave ovens at first?

People were initially afraid to cook food in microwave ovens due to concerns about safety and the potential for harmful radiation exposure. Many were skeptical of the new technology, fearing that microwaves could alter the molecular structure of food or lead to health risks. Additionally, early marketing and limited public understanding of how microwave cooking worked contributed to these fears, as people were unsure about the implications of using such a novel appliance in their kitchens. Over time, as more information became available and safety standards were established, these fears gradually diminished.