

In addition to limiting the presence of potentially carcinogenic agents in the meat, the marinade also keeps the meat tender and adds flavor to your meal. To prevent charring, barbecue slowly and keep the food away from the hot coals so that flames are less likely to engulf the food.Īccording to some studies, marinating meat for as little as 10 to 20 minutes can reduce the formation of carcinogens by as much as 90%. Minimize consumption of red meat and processed meat. A healthy diet is low in saturated and trans fats. This will reduce the number of harmful chemicals that develop from the smoke created by burning fat. If you barbecue, choose leaner cuts of meat, poultry, and seafood. Nevertheless, when in doubt, you may wish to be a bit more careful with your cooking habits and reduce your exposure to charred meats.Īccording to the Public Health Agency of Canada, ideally, cook meat, poultry, and seafood at lower temperatures by braising, stewing, steaming, or roasting. However, evidence in human studies is unclear. In animal studies, heterocyclic amines are carcinogenic (causing cancer). In laboratory experiments, HCAs and PAHs have been found to be mutagenic-that is, they cause changes in DNA that may increase the risk of cancer. Some research suggests that burned or charred meat may increase the risk of cancer. The smoke contains PAHs that then adhere to the surface of the meat. The main risk comes from when fat and juices from meat grilled (beef, veal, lamb, pork, etc.), poultry or fish, directly over a heated surface or open fire drip onto the surface or fire, causing flames and smoke and charring your food. Not only does it smell good, but it is a zen and relaxing activity to be outside preparing our meal.īut did you know that cooking at high temperatures - such as pan-frying or grilling directly over an open flame - creates certain chemicals called heterocyclic amines (HCAs) and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs)? Indeed, the more the meat is brown and charred, and the more the formation of these compounds is great. Who does not like the good smell of a steak or skewer cooking on a barbecue grill? At this time of the year, many BBQ fans enjoy it, using it every day, if not every weekend. Meat, cooking and BBQ: what you need to know
