Topic: Acrylamide

A California judge is considering a lawsuit that would require coffee sellers like Starbucks to post cancer warning signs due to the presence of acrylamide. Acrylamide is a chemical that forms naturally when coffee beans are roasted at high temperatures. While the chemical has caused cancer in high-dose lab animal studies, the National Coffee Association argues that the warning would confuse consumers and make a mockery of Proposition 65.

The European Commission proposed new guidelines for preparing Belgian frites to reduce levels of acrylamide, a potential carcinogen. The 10-page report includes color scales for finished potatoes and strict rules on sugar content and pH values. Belgian aficionados criticized the move as bureaucratic overreach that threatens traditional double-frying methods.

The European Commission is introducing regulations requiring potatoes to be blanched before frying to reduce levels of acrylamide, a potential carcinogen. Belgian "frite" shop owners are reportedly up in arms, as the process interferes with traditional double-frying techniques. The hosts criticize the EU for "overcaution" and interfering with long-standing culinary traditions, comparing it to previous regulations on the cheese industry.