Are Chemicals Used to Pasteurize Almonds Safe?
Almonds are gassed with propylene oxide to kill bacteria. But what might that chemical be doing to us?
Monica Reinagel, MS, LD/N, CNS
Some “food activists” have made their reputations (and fortunes) by raising alarm after alarm over chemicals or compounds used in food manufacturing, which sound really scary. These arguments prey on our fears and suspicions about “industrialized food” or about “chemicals,” in general. And, make no mistake, our food system needs watchdogs! But I think we could use some better informed watchdogs.
Many of these alarms are based on the flawed assumption that if a compound is harmful in any form or amount, then it must be harmful in every form and amount. I wrote about this more in my article on the famous “yoga mat chemicals.” But a recent question from a reader illustrates the same principle.
Ann writes:
“I hope you can shed some light on the chemicals being used to pasteurize almonds. Some say it is not harmful, others say it is a human carcinogen. I know pasteurization is important to prevent food poisoning but is this a safe way to do it?”
In fact, both statements are true: This chemical is a carcinogen. This process is not harmful.
Propylene oxide gas (PPO) is used to kill surface bacteria that could cause food poisoning. Since a series of salmonella outbreaks, all raw almonds are now pasteurized using either PPO or steam.
PPO can cause cancer when inhaled or ingested, so you definitely don’t want to do either of those things! Fortunately, you don’t need to worry about almonds that have been treated with PPO. The chemical dissipates rapidly and completely, so your exposure—and your risk—from eating almonds is nil.
Image courtesy of Shutterstock.
About the Author
Monica Reinagel is a board-certified licensed nutritionist, author, and the creator of one of iTunes’ most highly ranked health and fitness podcasts. Her advice is regularly featured on the TODAY show, Dr. Oz, NPR, and in the nation’s leading newspapers, magazines, and websites. Do you have a nutrition question? Call the Nutrition Diva listener line at 443-961-6206. Your question could be featured on the show.