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Biology/Aluminum foil + wrapping sandwiches

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Expert: - 12/11/2008


Question
Hello

I was just wondering if its safe to wrap a PBJ in reynolds aluminum wrap.  I thought it was odd and know of alzheimers.  I know htye use it in certain fast foods but that wrap do not have aluminum on the inside.  If you know let me know.


Answer
Dear Mona,

The jury is still out on whether ingested aluminum has anything to do with Alzheimer's and other forms of dementia.  But aluminum probably isn't great to ingest, anyway.  

I doubt much aluminum would leach onto a PBJ sandwich, since the metal generally won't come out of the foil unless exposed to an acidic liquid (e.g., tomato, citrus, etc.).  But if you're concerned, then I'd just use a reclosable ziplock bag (oh no!  estrogen mimics!  aieee!), which won't present any significant danger.  (The bag will keep the sandwich fresher, and it can even be re-used!  The bag, not the sandwich.)

Hope that helps!

Dana

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Dana Krempels, Ph.D.

Expertise

I can answer biology-related questions in the areas of evolution, zoology, botany, genetics, and ecology. But I don't answer homework questions or provide ideas for your science fair projects. So students please do your learning the right way by reading your text assignments and studying!

Experience

At the University of Miami, I teach Evolution and Biodiversity, Botany, Zoology, Genetics, Ecology, and a variety of seminars (e.g., the Biology and Evolution of Human Gender Roles).

Education/Credentials
I have a B.S. in Biology and an A.B. in English from the University of Southern California (1980). I earned my Ph.D. in Biology in the area of evolutionary biology/visual physiology from the University of Miami in 1989.

Past/Present Clients
I am currently an "expert" in both the "Rabbits" and "Wild Animals" categories.

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