MATAWAN, NJ - Results of a new study conducted by scientists at the Lawrence Livermore National Laboratories in California reveal that consuming grilled meats that have been marinated can virtually eliminate the potential risk of eating cancer-causing agents normally found in those meats. The study was based on marinating chicken in an olive oil-based marinade for as little as one hour and then grilling it.
According to Mark Knize, a chemist at Livermore, while barbecued meat contains heterocyclic aromatic amines (HAAs), which have been linked with cancer in animals, the study showed that marinating the meat can reduce the production of HAAs by 92 to 96 percent. Scientists theorize that the marinade builds a barrier between the meat and the flame to prevent formation of HAAs. While the marinade used in the study was a mixture of olive oil, cider vinegar, brown sugar, lemon juice, garlic and salt, any type of marinade except water, will have the same effect.
``We've always known that olive oil contributes to a heart-healthy diet because of its monounsaturated profile,'' says Richard Sullivan, president of the North American Olive Oil Association (NAOOA). ``Now we have evidence that marinating meat -- in which olive oil can play a big role -- may help reduce the risk of cancer.''
The length of time for marinating was not an issue; the chicken used in the study was marinated between one hour and overnight with the same results. And while chicken was used in the study, scientists speculate that marinating other muscle meats such as beef and pork would have the same effect.
To make it easy for consumers to experiment with marinades, and to learn how to grill with them during any season, the NAOOA developed ``Year-Round Grilling with Olive Oil'' brochures which is being distributed in major supermarket chains throughout the country. If the brochures are not available in a specific area, consumers can call toll-free 1-800-232-6548 to order a free color recipe booklet also featuring a variety of marinating tips and recipes. Additional olive oil-related brochures are also available and new materials are in production.
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