The use of aluminum cooking utensils is widespread--as is speculation that they pose health dangers to consumers. Those dangers, however, are reduced when aluminum cooking utensils are not exposed to excessive heat or used for storage purposes. The longer foods remain in aluminum cooking utensils, the more aluminum is absorbed into those foods. Also, absorption of aluminum occurs at a higher rate with acidic foods or leafy vegetables, which are best prepared in non-aluminum cooking vessels.
Effects
One of the dangers of the above-mentioned improper uses of aluminum cooking utensils is aluminum poisoning, which can cause gastrointestinal problems, anemia, colic, headaches, memory loss, bone softening and speech difficulties.
Identification
Aluminum is an element abundantly found in the earth. Its ability to excel in conducting heat makes it popular for use in cooking utensils.
Warning
Aluminum is also considered a poison that can be life-threatening if found in large quantities in the body.
Misconceptions
are relatively harmless in and of themselves, but pose dangers to health when excessively heated. High heat causes chemical breakdown, which allows aluminum to seep into the foods being cooked.
