Effect of Marination on the Formation of Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons in Grilled Vegetables

The effect of marination on the formation of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAH) in charcoal-grilled vegetables was studied. Various marinade ingredients, including apple cider vinegar, red grape vinegar, lemon juice, garlic powder, black pepper, and the food additive tert-butylhydroquinone (TBHQ) were applied to vegetable samples before charcoal grilling. The total phenolic content (TPC) and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) of each marinade ingredient were assessed for their contribution to PAH inhibition. A substantial decrease in PAH4 formation was observed in marinated vegetables. Red grape vinegar exhibited the strongest average inhibitory effect on total PAH4 formation (75%), followed by apple vinegar (68%), lemon juice (52%), garlic powder (34%), and black pepper (30%). Additionally, the TBHQ (67%) demonstrated a strong inhibitory effect, reducing total PAH4 formation by 67%. These findings offer valuable insights for reducing PAH levels in grilled vegetables and preventing their formation.