MAHA INFLUENCE: Fast food chain eliminating microwaves from its kitchens
Steak 'n Shake is removing all microwaves from its 390 U.S. restaurants, with every location expected to be microwave-free by April 15.
The Indianapolis-based chain announced the move on X, stating it is part of a broader effort to improve food quality and rely solely on traditional cooking methods. The company emphasized that "quality restaurants don't need microwaves" and framed the decision under the slogan "Eat Real Food," aligning with growing consumer demand for simpler recipes, cleaner ingredient labels, and farm-fresh sourcing.
The ban follows other recent upgrades at Steak 'n Shake. Last year, the chain switched to 100% all-natural beef tallow for frying, eliminating seed oils. In December, it began using a2 milk, which comes from cows that naturally produce only the A2 protein and none of the A1 protein found in conventional milk, with research indicating it may be easier to digest for some people. These changes coincide with the Trump administration's focus on whole foods, including the January signing of the Whole Milk for Healthy Kids Act, and statements from HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. and USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins promoting minimally processed options over ultra-processed meals.
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A 2022 systematic review from the National Library of Medicine highlighted potential health concerns with microwaves, noting they can affect neurotransmitters and delay brain signaling processes, though the study also acknowledged positive, neutral, and negative effects on biological systems and their medical utility. California chef Andrew Gruel questioned why Steak 'n Shake had been using microwaves at all, while noting he keeps one in his own kitchens for limited staff tasks like melting chocolate. The chain's latest step continues its push to prioritize real food preparation across its operations.