Is it unhealthy to BBQ on rusted grills?

Summer is right around the corner, and with that comes the start of grilling season. Is there anything better than some delicious barbequed food with friends and family on a hot summer day? However, before you fire up your grill, you may want to consider the condition of the grates. Is it unhealthy to BBQ on rusted grills? Let's find out.

What Happens When Grills Rust?

Grills are made of metal, and as such, they are susceptible to rusting. Rust is created when iron, oxygen, and moisture come into contact. When the metal on your grill rusts, it becomes weaker and more brittle, meaning that it is more prone to cracking or breaking.

Additionally, rust can create rough patches on the grates, making it easier for food to stick. This can also make it more difficult to clean. Rust can also cause a metallic taste to your food, which nobody wants.

Is Rusted Metal Safe To Use In Cooking?

The short answer is no. Rusted metal is not safe to use in cooking. Rust on metal does not have any health benefits and can be potentially harmful to your body, especially if ingested.

While rust itself is not toxic, the rusting process creates a lot of iron oxide, which can form in your food. Ingesting too much iron oxide can cause stomach irritation and poisoning. If you have a cut in your mouth or throat, the sharp edges of the rusted metal can also cause injury.

How To Check If Your Grill Is Rusted?

If you're unsure whether your grill grates are rusted, it's easy to check. Simply give them a once-over and look for any visible rust spots. These can appear as brown or orange patches on the metal. If you see any rust, you'll need to clean your grill before using it.

How To Clean Rusted Grills?

Cleaning rusted grills can be a bit of a process. To start, you'll need to remove the rust from the grates. This can be done with a wire brush or a grill cleaning tool. Be sure to wear gloves to protect your hands from any sharp edges.

Once you've removed as much rust as possible, it's time to clean the grates. You can use a grill cleaner or a mixture of baking soda and vinegar to clean the rust off your grill grates. Be sure to rinse the grates thoroughly with water and dry them completely before using your grill.

Can You Prevent Grills from Rusting?

The best way to prevent grills from rusting is to keep them clean and dry. After each use, be sure to clean your grill grates thoroughly. If you're not going to be using your grill for an extended period, consider covering it to protect it from moisture.

You can also purchase a grill grate made of stainless steel or other rust-resistant materials. While these grates may cost more initially, they will last longer and are less likely to rust over time.

Conclusion

In summary, BBQing on rusted grills is not safe and is not recommended. Rust on metal can be potentially harmful if ingested and can make food taste metallic. Rust can also weaken the metal on your grill, making it more prone to cracking or breaking.

If your grill grates are rusted, be sure to clean them thoroughly before using your grill. You can also prevent grills from rusting by keeping them clean and dry and investing in rust-resistant grill grates. By taking care of your grill properly, you'll be able to enjoy delicious BBQ all summer long.