For the record, no, its not the same as eating burnt food. Price and stock could change after publish date, and we may make money off these affiliate links.
Youve probably heard the news that its not a great idea to consume burnt food. According to research, charring causes the formation of HAAs, which has been linked to cancer in animal studies. So what about liquid smoke? It’s been on store shelves for ages but now home cooks have some questions. What is actually in this smoky liquid and more importantly, is it safe to consume? Find out everything you need to know, including how safe it is to use, below.
Yes, it starts out as real smoke. As such, one of the known groups of compounds found in smoke that can also be found in liquid smoke are the polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons. These compounds are known carcinogens.
What Is Liquid Smoke?
Believe it or not this yellowish brown liquid is actually made from (wait for it) smoke! Wood chips are burned and the smoke is captured and condensed. Some sources go a step further and explain the whole process, including the removal of any potentially carcinogenic polyaromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) that may be created through the burning and condensing processes. Some carcinogenic PAHs are created in the process, however liquid smoke it filtered twice in order to remove much of them.
Once the smoke is captured, a variety of flavorings or colorings may be added. Common add-ins include molasses, vinegar, caramel color and salt, but you can find some brands that contain only water and smoke concentrate. It is also a common ingredient in marinades and bottled sauces.
A few drops of liquid smoke infuses whatever it touches with flavors reminiscent of foods cooked over a hickory or mesquite wood fire. Proponents of these tiny bottles of flavor would sing its praises as it adds that slow cooked flavor with just a few drops. Contrary to popular belief, most varieties contain very little sodium. According to research, it may even have antimicrobial properties.
Is Liquid Smoke Safe?
Rumors continue to swirl about the dangers of liquid smoke. While it has been determined that liquid smoke contains potentially harmful naturally existing plant compounds knowns as pyrogallol-like polyphenols or PLPs (which are also found in tea and coffee), they may not wreak havoc for liquid smoke lovers. A study published in 2014 found there may be substances naturally found in saliva and blood that may ward off any potential damage from PLPs. Another thing to consider is the dose: Liquid smoke is potent, a drop or two is typically all that is needed to impart flavor.
Is Liquid Smoke Flavoring Carcinogenic?
FAQ
Is liquid smoke flavoring carcinogenic?
How harmful is liquid smoke?
What chemicals are in liquid smoke?
Are smoked products carcinogenic?
Is liquid smoke a carcinogen?
Studies have shown that the amount of carcinogenic chemical found in liquid smoke depends on the type of hardwood used and the temperature at which it is burned. Other studies have shown that liquid smoke is less risky than food charred and cooked over smoke.
What are the health risks posed by second-hand smoke?
Second hand smoke refers to tobacco smoke exposure in non-smokers. The potential risks of second hand smoke are similar to those in smokers. This includes a higher risk of multiple types of cancer, especially lung cancer and cardiovascular disease.
Can liquid smoke cause cancer?
It turns out that most of the carcinogens in smoke are fat soluble, so when we make a water-based solution, like liquid smoke, we capture the smoke flavor compounds without capturing most of the smoke cancer compounds. The only time we need to really worry is when eating smoked foods —foods directly exposed to actual smoke.
Is liquid smoke a health hazard?
Liquid smoke is a condiment that invites controversy. Barbecue purists roll their eyes and say “no way.” Health groups consistently voice concern over possible health risks. Yet despite all the ‘nay’, there is a strong ‘yay’ with marketing trends showing that the condiment is growing in popularity as a flavor additive.