Grilled Meat and Your Health: What You Need to Know This BBQ Season

With the arrival of summer and the Passover holidays, many of us have purchased new grills to enjoy barbecued meat during the holiday season. And yet, various studies have linked grilled meat consumption to chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Understanding these risks can help us maintain our health, even during barbecue season.

The meat that ends up on our grills is often processed and contains high levels of saturated fat. This type of fat is considered particularly harmful to health, especially in meats such as hot dogs, hamburgers, and fatty cuts like entrecôte. According to medical research, a high intake of saturated fat can lead to cardiovascular issues and may increase the risk of developing certain types of cancer.

In addition, grilling meat at high temperatures- especially using open-flame cooking techniques- can lead to the formation of certain chemical compounds that have been linked to long-term health problems. Studies show that cooking meat at high temperatures leads to the creation of chemicals like HCAs (heterocyclic amines) and PAHs (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons), both of which are considered potentially carcinogenic.

A 2018 study published in Environmental Science & Technology found that barbecue cooking can expose those nearby to hazardous chemicals that may cause cancer. The research showed that individuals present around an active grill were exposed to PAHs through skin contact. These chemicals are formed during the burning of organic materials such as charcoal, fuel, and wood, and also when meat is cooked at high temperatures- such as grilling or frying- according to the National Cancer Institute.

The good news is that you don’t need to give up barbecuing altogether. You can reduce health risks by making better meat choices, such as opting for lean cuts like chicken or fish, and by adding vegetables to your grill menu. It’s also advisable to avoid processed meats like hot dogs and deli cuts, and to practice moderation when consuming grilled meats.