Aluminum foil is a common item in most kitchens, used for cooking and food storage. But is it safe to cook with aluminum foil?
Is It Safe To Cook With Aluminum Foil?
Aluminum is naturally found in soil, water, and plants, and we consume small amounts of it every day. However, cooking with aluminum foil may increase the aluminum content of foods, especially when it comes into direct contact with the food and is exposed to heat. This can be affected by factors such as cooking time, temperature, and acidity of the food. While some believe this can lead to health problems, evidence suggests that the amount of aluminum leached into food is not large enough to cause harm. (1)
Potential Dangers of Aluminum
Although aluminum is a neurotoxin that can cause harm in extreme exposure situations, such as chronic exposure to aluminum dust or fumes, routine exposure through cooking with aluminum foil is not dangerous. Our bodies efficiently remove aluminum and the amounts ingested from daily use are not harmful. If you have concerns about aluminum exposure, consult with a healthcare professional. Alternatives to cooking with aluminum foil include using parchment paper. (2)
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Sources
- “Is It Safe to Use Aluminum Foil in Cooking?” Healthline. Helen West, RD. April 27, 2017.
- “Fact check: Exposure to aluminum through food does not cause neural issues or cancer.” USA Today. Vincent Gabrielle. June 23, 2020.
