Health Canada has recommended that acrylamide is included in the nation’s list of toxic substances.
Acrylamide is a chemical produced when starchy foods, like potatoes, are cooked at high temperatures to produce products such as chips (French fries) or crisps (potato chips). Acrylamide is a suspected carcinogen and though the mode of action of induction of tumours is not fully understood, the recommendation has been made by Health Canada because current consumption levels may constitute a danger to human life or health.
More information: Canada Gazette Vol 143, No 8 – Feburary 21, 2009-03-20
http://gazette.gc.ca/rp-pr/p1/2009/2009-02-21/html/sup1-eng.html
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