There’s nothing better than grilling during the summer (OK, maybe the beach). But how can we make sure that we’re taking all then necessary precautions when grilling? Over at Strollerderby, Dr. Martha Howard of Chicago Healers has some tips to help you grill as safely as possible and avoid exposure to harmful chemicals:
- Before you get started, thoroughly clean your grill to get rid of any leftover bits from the last cookout.
- When grilling with charcoal, avoid petroleum starters. Instead, use a wood starter and stack your charcoal up in a 2 pound metal can with the ends cut off. When the coals are ready, use tongs to lift and remove the can from the grill.
- When using a gas grill, light it immediately after opening the propane valve.
- To reduce the amount of PAHs, trim the fat off your meats before cooking.
- Marinades actually protect meats from charring, so go ahead and soak it up ā in the refrigerator, of course.
- When done, make sure the charcoal is completely out or the propane gas valve is tightly closed.
From Strollerderby. Photo by Another Pint Please.