Learn Not to Burn This Summer!

Grilling is a natural pastime of summer. A grilled hamburger or steak tastes better to most than one cooked on the stove or in the oven. There are some precautions that should be taken when grilling. Studies have shown in the past that grilling and burning your food may produce carcinogens. Carcinogens are cancer-causing substances. So how do you avoid these substances, and avoid burning your food?

When cooking high fat items on the grill (gas or charcoal), the fat drips onto the flames and creates smoke that contains polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons -- chemicals in smoke that are potential carcinogens. The blackened parts of meat may also contain carcinogens. So-to avoid this flare ups and the potential for creating cancer causing substances, grill lower fat food items, grill farther away from the flame or charcoal, so as to reduce the chances of burning. Grill for the shortest, and safest amount of time possible. Stay away from grilling on high. Also, remember, you can grill fruits and vegetables. Consuming fruits and vegetables helps to reduce your chances for cancer. Enjoy your burgers and steaks-just don't burn them!