Health risks of aluminum foil: Avoid these 3 mistakes

Aluminum foil is a practical kitchen helper. However, we should not use foil without hesitation. Read here what aluminum is in our food and aluminum foil in the kitchen.

Why are aluminum products like aluminum foil such a big problem?

Not every part of the food we eat has a function in our bodies. Some ingredients in natural foods have no nutritional role at all. As well as aluminum. As one of the most common elements in the Earth's crust, it is found naturally in small amounts in plants or in our drinking water. When we eat, nothing happens to aluminum in our bodies. It is only excreted.

However, it becomes difficult if we supply our bodies with a large amount of aluminum. Nowadays, aluminum also enters our system through cosmetics such as deodorants or processed foods. Metal ions can also be released from aluminum foil or aluminum containers, where ready-made meals or shrink-wrapped cakes are often packed, and end up in our stomachs with the food.

The maximum values for aluminum are often exceeded

How much aluminum is there for us? There are two guidelines. The food safety authority has set a maximum tolerable weekly value of 1 milligram per kilogram of body weight. The World Health Organization (WHO) sets a weekly maximum of 2 milligrams per kilogram of body weight. The Federal Institute for Risk Assessment has determined that on average we take in more than half of our body's maximum value through food. Along with cosmetics, pharmaceuticals and products such as aluminum foil, we clearly exceed the recommended maximum values.

Consequences of using too much aluminum for body hair

We simply eliminate the smallest amounts of aluminum. However, if too much of the element accumulates in the body, kidney and bone damage can occur. Aluminum accumulates mainly on the skeleton. Researchers also hypothesize that it upsets the body's balance of magnesium and iron. This can have consequences for our health. The Federal Institute for Risk Assessment, in its assessment of aluminum risks, assumes that moderately severe and irreversible disabilities for the general population are possible.

You should pay attention to these things when handling aluminum foil and aluminum containers

In order to keep your exposure to aluminum as low as possible, you should use or consume as few aluminum products as possible. Of course, no one should completely go without it, but it's better to be safe than sorry. When handling aluminum foil, the following should be noted:

Never allow aluminum foil and trays to come into contact with acidic or salty foods: salt and fruit acid can cause chemical reactions with aluminum. As a result, aluminum ions are transferred to the food and go directly to our stomach. Always take oven-ready fish dishes in aluminum pans out of the pot first before adding the lemon juice.

Rarely grill and cook in aluminum foil: Minerals are transferred to food wrapped in aluminum foil as a result of exposure to prolonged and high heat. If you are using aluminum foil or roasting trays, choose the shortest time possible. Reusable stainless steel bowls are best for grilling.

Never use aluminum foil to cover food on metal serving dishes: Wet, salty or acidic foods can act as accelerators of the reactions between the aluminum and metal in the serving dish. If you need to cover the food on these plates, use waxed paper or a cloth, or if you have no other option, use wrapping paper.