Want Chemotherapy With Your Fries?

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Want chemotherapy with your fries?

December 30, 2009 - by Pamela Steel

Health Canada is taking the temperature of Canadians' opinions toward doctoring

their junk food.

When foods like fries and chips are cooked at high temperatures a probable

carcinogen called acrylamide forms.

The World Health Organization approved adding an enzyme called asparaginase to

certain foods in 2005 to counter the formation of the toxic chemical.

Asparaginase is also used as a chemotherapy agent to treat leukemia and mast

cell tumors.

Health Canada is calling the move toward the additive in junk food a " high

priority " and wants your opinion.

Previous to this move, Health Canada's recommendation regarding junk foods was

" to have fried or deep-fried foods and snacks such as french fries and potato

chips less often while choosing a healthy diet, including a variety of foods

from each food group. "

Let the government know what you think by email at bcs-bipc@... and use the

word " asparaginase " in the subject box of your email. Comments must be received

by Feb. 21.

For more information visit www.hc-sc.gc.ca and search for asparaginase.