Is it possible to cook in an aluminum pan

The ware from aluminum is in demand already not one ten years. She can be found in every kitchen. Kitchenware made from this metal attracts a large number of housewives, because such products are light and inexpensive, and the food they cook quickly.

Despite the advantages of aluminum cookware, for many years it is rumored that this metal is harmful to human health. Especially impressionable claim that it causes Alzheimer's disease.

Is aluminum kitchenware dangerous to health? What are its pros and cons?

Types of aluminum cookware

Knowing the popularity of kitchen utensils made of aluminum, manufacturers do not slow down the pace of its production. On the contrary, the shops are full of a variety of aluminum utensils.

Existing species can be divided into several categories:

1. According to the method of manufacture. Products are made in two ways: stamping (sheet method) and casting. The sheet method consists in the fact that kitchen utensils are stamped from sheets of metal, additionally subjecting it to chasing or forging. Expensive models are made by casting - the molten metal is poured into special forms. With this method of manufacturing material does not change the structure. Ware from cast aluminum possesses positive heat conductivity.
2. By type of coverage. Some manufacturers produce kitchen utensils with a color coating. Finished products look attractive and original. In addition, the dishes are given additional protection against deformation. In addition to color, the following types of coating are applied to pans: ceramic, non-stick, marble. They are completely safe for the human body. In this case, pots with such coatings are heated evenly, and the food does not burn in them.
3. Disposable. This type of dish was initially used only in aviation for serving food to passengers. But gradually such dishes found use in other areas of life. Products are practical - they do not need to be washed. In addition, it is convenient to bake meat in foil: it does not lose juiciness and is evenly baked.
4. "Clean" material. For the manufacture of kitchen utensils can be used as pure aluminum, and some of its alloys, for example, duralumin. That model of pure metal are in great demand among the hostesses. But they are somewhat more expensive.

Can I use aluminum cookware: truth and myths

Due to the large variety of myths, aluminum products have become "rogue".

Myths related to aluminum kitchen utensils:

1. The use of dishes leads to the emergence of various diseases. This is the most common misconception that has not been confirmed. No research has been conducted on this issue. In addition, aluminum is able to get into the human body in other ways: from drugs for heartburn and antiperspirant deodorants. But people use these objects constantly, and they do not cause any fears. In addition, scientists argue that it is not important whether aluminum is dangerous, it is important how much matter enters the body. The daily dose should not exceed 50 mg. A person is simply not able to eat so many foods to get the specified dose of metal.
2. The dishes are short-lived. Of course, substandard products made from thin sheets of metal will not last long. To the kitchen utensils are not deformed, you should purchase more expensive dishes with thick walls.

What can be cooked in aluminum cookware

Many hostesses often ask this question. But it is impossible to give an unequivocal answer to it, because some products can be prepared, and some cannot.

Kitchenware made of aluminum is ideal for cooking low-fat meats, ravioli, pasta, eggs, fruits and vegetables with a low content of acid.

It is not recommended to cook: fish, beets, tomatoes. It is not necessary to cook meals for children in an aluminum pan. For this, it is better to use stainless steel utensils. You also can not cook dishes with a large amount of acid: jam, marinades, jelly, sour soup.

Attention! It is not necessary to cook foods that contain calcium and sulfur in aluminum cookware. When heated, they are able to leave a dark coating on the walls of pots.

Can I store food in aluminum dishes

Aluminum is an active chemical, that is, it has the property to enter into various chemical reactions. For example, when acetic acid is ingested, aluminum is converted to a salt — aluminum acetate. Also at the contact of the metal with alkalis and acids, hydrogen begins to be produced.

The walls of all aluminum kitchen utensils are covered with a thin film of oxide. With the ingress of organic acids and subsequent heating, the film begins to break down. This leads to the fact that the free particles of aluminum begin to penetrate into the food.

Therefore, only those products that do not contain acids can be stored in such dishes. For example, pasta does not contain acid and salt, so they can be safely cooked in aluminum cookware - the film will not collapse in this case. Cooking sour or salty foods is best in enameled pans.

Also in the aluminum kitchen utensils should not be stored ready meals. Ready or leftover food should be transferred to another container, and the dishes should be washed thoroughly.

Even if the product has already had time to react with the prepared products, after they are shipped, the reaction will stop. The amount of aluminum ingested will not increase.

Attention! No matter how high-quality aluminum kitchen utensils, it is strictly forbidden to cook acidic foods, and also to store ready meals in it!

Features of the operation of aluminum cookware

For the product to last for many years, it must be properly used.

1. It is strictly forbidden to wash aluminum kitchen utensils in the dishwasher. Cookware made a few years ago, when entering into a reaction with salt and alkali, will begin to break down. New products will darken and become dull.
2. Despite the fact that many dishes can not be operated in a microwave oven, kitchen utensils made of aluminum is an exception. It can also be used for baking and stewing in the oven. Prepared food is tasty and nutritious.
3. Aluminum cookware is not suitable for induction stoves.

Choosing aluminum dishes, you need to compare products from several manufacturers. Do not overpay for the famous brand. Often, the products of lesser-known firms are not inferior in quality, while costing less. Proper operation and careful care will be the key to its safety and long life.