Aluminum cookware has been in use for a long time, however, in recent years, concerns have been raised about potential health risks. Here are the main concerns:
- Aluminum Intake: Cooking food in aluminum cookware can cause it to leach into the food, particularly when cooking acidic foods like tomatoes. While most aluminum ingested by humans is usually excreted, a small amount can accumulate over time and may be linked to health issues [2].
- Alzheimer's Disease: Some studies suggest a link between high levels of aluminum in the brain and Alzheimer's disease. However, the Alzheimer's Association states that there is no proven link between aluminum intake and Alzheimer's, and that the main risk factors for Alzheimer's are age, family history, and genetics [3].
- Kidney Disease: For people with impaired kidney function, avoiding aluminum exposure can be important since their bodies struggle to remove this metal from the bloodstream. This may accumulate and cause health problems [4].
While these potential risks exist, it's important to note that according to the World Health Organization (WHO), the intake of aluminum from cookware constitutes only a small fraction of the total daily intake. Most exposure comes from our diet and air.[1].
Still, if you are worried about the potential health impact of aluminum cookware, then consider switching to alternative materials like stainless steel, cast iron, or ceramic cookware.
Learn more:
- Food Additive Status List | FDA
- Guidelines for Drinking-water Quality: Fourth Edition: Aluminium | WHO
- Aluminum, Alzheimer's Disease, and the Geospatial Occurrence of Alzheimer's Disease in Alabama | NCBI
- Myths About Alzheimer's Disease | Alzheimer's Association