Fried foods, especially those based on carbohydrate products, are an integral part of our diet. However, more and more research indicates that the frying process may produce acrylamide - a chemical compound that may pose a risk to human health. In this article, we will explore the health effects of acrylamide, the products in which it is present, and present medical sources that confirm this risk. Organizations such as the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) and the World Health Organization (WHO) have classified acrylamide as a carcinogen.
What is acrylamide?
Acrylamide is a chemical compound produced in the process of thermal processing of carbohydrate products, such as potatoes, French fries, bread, as well as coffee and some cereal products. It is produced by the reaction of amino acids with sugars in the presence of high temperature. High concentrations of acrylamide can be found in burnt or heavily browned foods.
Where is acrylamide found?
Primarily in carbohydrate products subjected to high temperatures during frying or baking. Examples of products include: French fries, chips, potato pancakes, bread, cookies, roasted coffee.
Acrylamide in research
Scientific research and assessments by health institutions clearly emphasize the potential danger associated with acrylamide. If possible, it is worth limiting the consumption of heavily burnt or roasted foods to minimize the risk of exposure to this carcinogenic substance.
Deep frying carbohydrate products, although providing culinary pleasure, leads to the formation of acrylamide, a substance harmful to human health. To reduce the risk, it is worth choosing less burnt and more delicately prepared foods.
Marta Wcześniak
Medical Sources and Research:
EFSA (European Food Safety Authority). (2015). EFSA statement on the presence of acrylamide in food.
Tareke, E., Rydberg, P., Karlsson, P., Eriksson, S., & Törnqvist, M. (2002). Acrylamide: a cooking carcinogen?
National Cancer Institute. (2020). Acrylamide and Cancer Risk.
National Toxicology Program. (2021). Report on Carcinogens, 15th Edition.