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Grilling is a summer favorite that brings people together for flavorful meals. However, it also comes with preventable health and safety risks, from toxic smoke and foodborne illnesses to serious burns. 

Cooking salty or acidic foods in aluminum foil or trays can lead to aluminum leaching, which may pose long-term health risks. Other concerns include harmful compounds such as polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and heterocyclic aromatic amines (HAAs), food contamination, and burn injuries.

Does your choice of grill fuel matter? Absolutely. Gas and electric grills produce fewer harmful substances than charcoal grills, although all types can be safely used with appropriate precautionary measures.

Here are Evidence-Based Recommendations for safer, healthier grilling

1. Reduce Dripping

Fats that drip onto flames produce smoke containing polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs). Trim excess fat and avoid direct flame contact to reduce smoke and charring.

2. Limit Aluminum Use

The German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment (BfR) recommends avoiding the use of aluminum trays for salty or acidic foods. They should be used occasionally, and the food should be seasoned after grilling. Stainless steel or ceramic trays are safer alternatives to aluminum trays.

3. Avoid Direct Wrapping

Wrapping cheese, vegetables, or marinated meat in foil, especially if they are acidic or salty, can increase aluminum exposure. When necessary, place baking paper between the food and foil.

4. Choose Safer Grills

Gas and electric grills produce fewer PAHs than charcoal grills. Regardless of the grill type, safe cooking practices should always be followed. The German Cancer Society recommends gas or electric options when possible.

5. Burn Coals Properly

Wait until the coal is fully ashed before cooking. Do not use newspapers, pinecones, or resinous wood to light fires, as they release harmful chemicals. Instead, use natural lump charcoal or clean-burning briquettes.

6. Raise the Grate

The grill grate should be positioned as high as possible above the coals to minimize direct heat, reduce charring, and lower the formation of toxins.

7. Use a Barrier

When grilling with foil, place a sheet of baking paper between the food and foil, especially for salty, marinated, or acidic dishes, to reduce aluminum transfer.

8. Cooking Method

Use the hot side to sear and the cooler side to finish the cooking. This method reduces the HAAs and prevents overcooking or burning.

9. Prevent Cross-Contamination

Separate plates and utensils should be used for raw and cooked food. Keep the perishable meats cold until ready to grill. Cook poultry thoroughly and ensure that pork is fully cooked to avoid hepatitis E.

10. Marinate Wisely

According to research from the University of Hohenheim, marinades with garlic, rosemary, thyme, or cayenne may reduce HAAs by up to 74%. A small amount of sugar can also enhance flavor and protective effects.

11. Handle Disposable Grills Safely

Disposable grills may become unstable. They should only be used on flat, fire-safe surfaces and not on grass or balconies, and should be fully extinguished with water after use.

12. Limit Processed Meats

Grilling processed meats, such as bacon or sausages, can form nitrosamines, which are linked to cancer. Limit intake or consider alternative cooking methods.

Accidents

Barbecue accidents are more common during warmer months, with children at a particular risk. Maintain a safe distance from the flames and hot surfaces. The leading cause of barbecue burns is the use of lighter fluids or flammable liquids such as rubbing alcohol, which is responsible for nearly 75% of all burn injuries.

Hot grease splashes are another frequent hazard, often causing burns on the hands, arms, and face, which are the most exposed body parts.

First Aid for Burns

Barbecue accidents are preventable with proper safety precautions. In case of burns, follow these first-aid steps to minimize harm:

• Stay calm.
• For minor burns, cool the area under lukewarm running water for 10 to 15 minutes.
• Do not cool large burns or burns in newborns or unconscious individuals
• Call emergency services immediately for serious burns
• Do not remove clothing stuck to the skin
• For scalds, remove wet clothing immediately, including diapers
• If clothing catches fire, stop, drop, and roll, or put out the flames using a blanket or by pouring water

With appropriate precautions, grilling can remain a safe and enjoyable summer tradition without the risk of toxic smoke, foodborne illnesses, or emergency. 

This story was translated and adapted from Coliquio.