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| - Last Updated on July 23, 2024 by Dr Priyamvada
Quick Take
A social media video claims that an air fryer caused high antimony levels in a child’s blood. We did a fact check and termed it as False.
The Claim
A Facebook video claims that a mother’s daily use of an air fryer resulted in astronomically high levels of antimony in her child’s bloodwork. The video suggests that the antimony, a toxic metal, came from the air-fryer cord and contributed to her child’s health issues, including autism.
Fact Check
What is antimony?
Antimony is a metallic element with the chemical symbol Sb and atomic number 51. It is abundant in nature primarily as the sulphide mineral stibnite (Sb2S3). Antimony has a variety uses in industrial applications including flame-retardant materials, lead-acid batteries, and microelectronics. It also has uses in some medical treatments for parasitic infections such as leishmaniasis. Although antimony compounds can be toxic, typical exposure levels for the general population are very low. It is generally less than 1 part per billion (ppb) in food and regulated to be below 6 ppb in drinking water.
Did the use of an air fryer lead to high antimony levels in the child?
No, the use of an air fryer did not lead to high antimony levels in the child’s blood. There is no scientific evidence or documented cases supporting the claim that air fryers can cause high levels of antimony in food or the human body. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) has issued recalls for various air fryers, but these were due to fire, burn, and laceration hazards, not because of antimony contamination. The woman in the Facebook video did not provide any proof or scientific data showing that her air fryer emitted antimony. Also, anything that’s present in the cord of an air fryer cannot possibly contaminate the food.
Is there evidence that an air-fryer cord can release antimony into the food?
No, not really. The claim lacks credible evidence. Plus, even if antimony were present in the jacketing of the cord, there would be no possibility for it to contaminate food cooked in the fryer. Electrical cords are usually insulated and separated from the cooking chamber, making it highly unlikely for any substance from the cord to leach into the food. The video mentioned provides no testing results or scientific validation of the cord containing or releasing antimony.
Do air fryers release toxic metals into food?
No, they are not known to release toxic metals. Air fryers, like all kitchen appliances, must meet safety standards and regulations that prevent the release of harmful substances. Materials used in these appliances are evaluated for safety and compliance with health standards. The CPSC has not issued any recalls related to the release of toxic metals, including antimony, from air fryers. The main concerns addressed by the CPSC have been related to mechanical and electrical safety, not chemical contamination.
What levels of antimony exposure are considered normal?
Low levels, usually measured in parts per billion (ppb). According to the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, the general population can be exposed to low levels of antimony from food, drinking water, and dust. Typical antimony levels in food are less than 1 ppb. And, in drinking water, they should be below 6 ppb by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). These levels are safe for human health and do not pose significant risks. In contrast, the claim suggests astronomically high levels of exposure without providing specific measurements or context.
Could antimony exposure from air fryers cause autism?
No, there is no evidence to support this. Autism is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder due to genetic and/or environmental factors. There is no credible scientific research linking antimony exposure from air fryers to autism. The video’s suggestion that high antimony levels could cause autism is speculative and not supported by existing scientific literature. Experts emphasise that environmental factors can contribute to autism. But, no single toxin has been definitively linked to its development.
How should consumers use air fryers safely?
Air fryers are generally safe when used according to the manufacturer’s instructions. It is important to follow safety guidelines to avoid mechanical hazards. Consumers should regularly inspect their appliances for any signs of damage, such as frayed cords or malfunctioning parts, and adhere to the recommended usage and maintenance procedures. Proper use and care of air fryers minimise risks and ensure safe cooking practices.
What is the regulatory context in India?
India has strict safety standards for kitchen appliances. The Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS) oversees the regulation of consumer products, including kitchen appliances like air fryers. Appliances must conform to the standards set by the BIS, which include specifications for electrical safety, materials used, and overall product safety. The BIS certification ensures that products meet rigorous safety and quality standards before they reach consumers.
In addition, the Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) regulates food contact materials to ensure they do not release harmful substances into food. This regulatory framework ensures that products like air fryers are safe for use and do not pose health risks due to chemical contamination.
What are the health hazards of antimony exposure?
Exposure to antimony, a metallic element, poses several health risks depending on the duration and level of exposure. According to the EPA, health hazards of antimony exposure can be:
Acute effects: Acute exposure primarily affects the skin and eyes. Inhalation can cause skin rashes known as antimony spots and eye irritation like conjunctivitis. Oral exposure can lead to gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea. Animal studies have shown effects on the lungs, cardiovascular system, and liver from high-level inhalation
Chronic effects (Non-cancer): Chronic inhalation exposure can result in respiratory issues such as pneumoconiosis (lung inflammation), chronic bronchitis, and emphysema. Other effects include cardiovascular problems like increased blood pressure and altered EKG readings, as well as gastrointestinal disorders.
Reproductive/Developmental effects: Reproductive issues reported include increased spontaneous abortions and menstrual disturbances in women exposed to antimony, though these studies are not definitive. Animal studies have also noted decreased offspring and reproductive process disturbances.
Cancer risk: Human studies are inconclusive. But, animal studies have shown lung tumours in rats exposed to antimony trioxide. The EPA has not classified antimony for carcinogenicity due to insufficient evidence.
In conclusion, there is no scientific basis for the claim that air fryer cords can contaminate food with antimony. The materials and design of air fryers are intended to prevent such contamination. Every new invention like the refrigerator or the microwave has met with criticism and been a subject of several conspiracy theories. For instance, there’s an ongoing claim that microwave ovens can cause cancer. Similarly, there’s also a viral claim saying that wireless personal audio devices like AirPods can cause brain cancer. All these remain unproven and hence false. You should always rely on credible health organisations for correct healthcare information.
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