Lemons under scrutiny: Expert highlights hidden peel risks
A noteworthy post about citrus fruits appeared on Dawid Polak's Instagram. The scientist shared what was found on the label, explaining the nature of a particular substance. "It's an agent that has been classified as 'probably carcinogenic to humans,'" he warns.
16 October 2024 15:41
As Dawid Polak wrote on his Instagram account biotech.geek, the lemons available in stores are coated with a certain agent. The scientist elaborated on why this mysterious ingredient could potentially be harmful to people.
An expert warns: dangerous substances on citrus peels
"Lemons have imazalil on them. It is a fungicide that has been classified as 'probably carcinogenic to humans,'" Dawid Polak explains at the start of the post, showing store labels on the fruits where the mentioned substance indeed appears.
"This means that in significant amounts, its consumption can lead to the development of cancers. However, since imazalil is primarily found on the fruit peels, its intake is limited," the expert continues.
As Polak adds, to minimize risk, it is recommended to regularly wash fruits before eating. The toxic dose of the mentioned substance for an adult male weighing approximately 70 kilograms is over 333 units.
We bought lemons, what's next?
To remove harmful substances on citrus peels, thoroughly wash them in warm water—preferably using a brush and dish soap. "Fruits with thicker skins, like grapefruits, can also be scalded with boiling water to more effectively remove imazalil," advises Dawid Polak.
He adds that if you plan to use lemon peel in the kitchen, it's advisable to remove substances that do not dissolve in water.
"To do this, first rinse the fruits in water with vinegar or citric acid, and then in a baking soda solution, which eliminates pesticides and preservatives. This process minimizes the risk of consuming toxins," instructs the expert.
