According to Professor Nguyen Duy Thinh, a food technology expert, aluminum pots used to be quite popular due to their durability before the advent of stainless steel cookware. However, if not used properly, aluminum pots can be prone to damage and release harmful substances that affect health.
Abrasively scrubbing aluminum pots
Under normal conditions, aluminum, including aluminum pots and utensils, reacts with oxygen in the air to form aluminum oxide, which acts as a protective coating. However, this layer can cause the aluminum pot to appear dull and discolored.
Many people believe that vigorously scrubbing a dirty pot will clean it, but this action can inadvertently remove the protective layer that surrounds and safeguards the aluminum pot. Without this protective layer, the pot becomes susceptible to corrosion, leading to faster deterioration and the release of substances detrimental to health.
According to the expert, it is advisable to opt for neutral cleaning methods rather than abrasively scrubbing or vigorously rubbing aluminum pots to prevent the loss of the natural protective layer.
The expert recommends avoiding vigorous scrubbing of aluminum pots to preserve the natural protective layer. (Illustrative image)
Cooking salty or acidic foods in aluminum pots
As per Professor Thinh, aluminum is a metal that reacts with both alkalis and acids. Therefore, using aluminum pots or utensils to cook or store salty or acidic foods can lead to reactions that produce substances that are not beneficial to health.
When cooking in an aluminum pot with salt, a reaction occurs with the protective layer of aluminum (aluminum oxide), causing the pot to deteriorate faster. The dissolution of aluminum oxide into food, if consumed in excessive amounts, can have adverse effects on health.
Using inexpensive aluminum pots
Prolonged use of aluminum pots for cooking can be detrimental to health, especially when using cheaper varieties made from recycled aluminum. These recycled pots, produced from scrap and mixed materials, may contain harmful substances that exceed the permitted levels for safe consumption.
According to the Ministry of Health, the lead content in recycled aluminum products can reach 7mg/kgu, and if this exceeds the permissible limit, it can accumulate in the liver and kidneys, leading to cancer, reduced liver function, and even acute poisoning.
Therefore, if you intend to use aluminum pots, it is advisable to opt for products with clear origins, proper labeling, and certification from relevant authorities.
Cooking on low heat to prevent burning and the release of harmful substances
Aluminum pots are excellent heat conductors, so when cooking, it is recommended to use low heat to avoid burning the food. If the aluminum pot is subjected to burnt food, the protective layer (aluminum oxide) can flake off, increasing the likelihood of corrosion and the release of harmful substances into the body. It is advisable to replace aluminum pots periodically.
According to VTC.vn
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