Is Grilled Food Safe to Eat?
Ask the Diva: Is Grilled Food Safe to Eat?
Ask the Diva: Is Grilled Food Safe to Eat?Q. What are the pro and cons of grilled food? I have heard the black carbon on grilled food is not healthy to eat.
Answer. The pros of grilled food include great flavor, convenience, and less clean up! But there are some cons, as well. Cooking meat at high temperatures and over direct heat sources like flames or hot coals can also create harmful compounds—and highly charred meat is, indeed, one of the things you want to watch out for. Marinating meats for a few minutes before throwing them on the grill is a very effective way to block the formation of harmful chemicals. For more tips on safer grilling, see this post from my blog on Nutrition Data.
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.
