Steak and Shake’s Bold Move: No More Microwaves
Steak and Shake, a fast food chain based in Indianapolis, has decided to remove microwaves from its kitchens entirely.
“We expect that by April 15th, all guest rooms will be microwave-free. Fine dining places don’t use microwaves,” the chain shared on X.
This change is part of their ongoing effort to enhance food quality, focusing solely on traditional cooking methods.
The chain also emphasized, “Eat real food,” underscoring their commitment to this shift.
This decision comes amid recent suggestions from notable figures like Health Department Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins, urging a move towards minimally processed, whole foods rather than the increasingly relied-upon microwaveable options.
As consumers become more critical of ingredients and food sourcing, Steak and Shake aims to win over diners by adopting simpler recipes, clean labels, and fresh, farm-sourced ingredients.
The restaurant chain operates around 390 locations throughout the United States, according to data from Scrape Hero.
California chef Andrew Gruel expressed curiosity regarding the use of microwaves at Steak and Shake when speaking to Fox News Digital. “I get it if it’s just a rare situation, but cooking food in the microwave? Really?” he said.
A systematic review titled “Microwave Radiation and the Brain” published by the National Library of Medicine in 2022 raised several health concerns about microwaves. The researchers noted that “microwaves can harm the brain, especially impacting neurotransmitters that are crucial for signaling within the body.”
They also pointed out that this radiation could lead to delays in brain signaling processes.
Interestingly, the researchers acknowledged that microwaves have beneficial applications in medicine, such as in tumor detection. Overall, they concluded that microwaves can have a mix of positive, neutral, and negative effects on biological systems.
Gruel further clarified to Fox News Digital that, although the restaurant generally has a microwave, staff occasionally use it for specific tasks. “It’s helpful for melting chocolate, preparing certain desserts, or squeezing limes. There are plenty of little hacks,” he explained.
Last year, Steak and Shake transitioned to using 100% natural beef tallow while phasing out seed oils across all its restaurants.
In December, the chain also switched to A2 milk, aligning with President Donald Trump’s promotion of whole milk. He signed the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act in January.
According to Steak and Shake, “A2 milk is real milk from cows that only produce A2 protein, avoiding A1 altogether. Research suggests A2 milk is easier to digest and might help prevent discomfort.”
