Rotis made on direct flame can cause cancer? Here's what experts have to say

Rotis or chapattis as they are also known as, are a part of every Indian household. It is a flatbread, traditionally made with wheat flour, cooking rotis involves the process of rolling the dough, placing it on a hot pan for initial cooking, followed by placing it directly on the gas flame.

This makes the rotis puff up, thereby lending it the distinct taste and texture.

However, studies claim that placing a roti directly on the flame is not safe, and may pose potential health risks that can even lead to cancer.

Explaining the claim in detail, a study published in the journal Environmental Science and Technology highlighted that natural gas stoves emit various pollutants inclusive of particulate matter, carbon monoxide and nitrogen dioxide.

According to WHO, these emissions are categorised under the hazardous category and are linked to several health issues such as cancer, heart diseases as well as certain respiratory issues.

During the process of placing the roti directly on the flame, it is subjected to high temperatures and undergoes pyrolysis, thus potentially leading to the formation of carcinogenic compounds, a report by The Wellness Corner stated.

The chemical reaction that occurs when organic substances are subjected to high temperatures in the absence of oxygen, is known as pyrolysis. Similarly, while making rotis, the organic compounds in it get further broken down into smaller particles, of which some may be carcinogenic and pose health threats.

In a report by Ambrosia Wellness, authored by nutritionist Pallavi Pinge said that the cooking time of a roti on direct flame is usually short, and within those few seconds, the generation of harmful compounds like PAHs and HCAs are unlikely.

The report further mentioned that carcinogens are produced when the cooking time is at least 15 minutes or more.“Cancer risks of cooking roti on a gas hob have been overplayed so don’t panic,” she added.

On an Instagram handle healthhatch, an expert said that carbon dioxide and water, and very few carcinogens like benzene are produced by LPG gas.

Thus, when a roti is made in a well-ventilated kitchen, and on a stove that is not blocked with soot does not pose any harm. He also added that if the stove has some amount of soot on it, very little amount of benzene will be deposited in the chapati .