My recent post on aluminum coffee pots sparked some interest (read it here). Some people have asked whether cooking with aluminum foil poses similar health concerns.
A study published in the Journal of Environmental Protection and Ecology (DOI: 10.1016/S1452-3981(23)19556-3) examined this issue—and the results are concerning.
What the Research Says
Researchers tested aluminum leaching from foil in various food solutions using minced meat combined with:
- Tomato juice
- Citric acid
- Apple vinegar
- Salt
- Spices
They analyzed the samples using weight loss measurements, Environmental Scanning Electron Microscopy (ESEM), and Inductively Coupled Plasma – Mass Spectrometry (ICP-MS).
Here’s what they found:
✅ Cooking with aluminum foil significantly increases daily aluminum intake.
✅ Acidic foods (like tomatoes and vinegar) cause higher aluminum leaching.
✅ Adding spices increases aluminum contamination even more.
✅ According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the levels of aluminum leaching were unacceptable.
✅ Excessive aluminum consumption poses serious health risks.
The Bottom Line
Aluminum foil may be safe for food storage, but not for cooking. If you regularly bake, grill, or wrap food in aluminum foil, it’s time to reconsider your approach.
Healthier Alternatives
Instead of aluminum foil, opt for:
- Glass or ceramic cookware for baking.
- Stainless steel or cast-iron pans for roasting.
- Parchment paper for wrapping food.
Your health is worth the switch!
