Acrylamide in food products: Formation, technological strategies for mitigation, and future outlook

Abstract

This review examines various methods of reducing acrylamide levels in processed foods, focusing on thermal and nonthermal methods. Acrylamide, which is mainly formed by the Maillard reaction, poses a health risk and therefore requires the implementation of successful mitigation strategies. The processes by which acrylamide is formed, particularly at temperatures above 120°C, such as frying, roasting, and cooking (however, the practical temperature in the inner of foods does not exceed 120°C), serve as a basis for understanding intervention methods. The effectiveness of thermal technologies, including optimization of time and temperature as well as pretreatment and posttreatment techniques, will be studied in detail. In addition, vacuum-based technologies such as baking, predrying, frying, deep-frying, and impregnation are examined to shed light on their underlying mechanisms. Advanced thermal techniques such as microwaves and irradiation will be investigated to evaluate their effectiveness in reducing acrylamide. Furthermore, nonthermal methods, including pulsed electric fields, ultrasound treatments, and novel combinations such as pulsed electric fields and blanching, are being investigated. Various enzymatic interventions with asparaginase and glucose oxidase as well as yeast treatments and fermentations offer a wide range of intervention possibilities. The use of additives/coatings and plant extracts, such as edible coatings, polyphenols, and specific ingredient formulations, has shown promise for acrylamide reduction. This paper highlights the commercial implications, future prospects, and barriers to implementation of these methods. By examining different approaches, this comprehensive analysis emphasizes the importance of using different strategies to successfully reduce acrylamide levels in processed foods and provides guidance to the food industry to improve product safety and quality.