Particle dose estimation from frying in residential settings

Fumes produced during frying have been implicated as a potential cause for the increased incidence of adenocarcinoma. Particulate matter exposure has also been linked with other pulmonary and coronary disease. This study investigated the contribution of frying in residential settings to ultrafine and fine particulate matter (UFP, PM2.5, respectively) exposure in homes. Production rates of 44 +/- 26 particles (pt)/cm3 s (mean +/- standard deviation) and 0.13 +/- 0.12 microg/m3 s were found for UFP and PM2.5, respectively, from frying a variety of foods at medium heat in a loft-style apartment. Rates of 290 +/- 150 pt/cm3 s and 3.5 +/- 4.9 microg/m3 s were found for UFP and PM2.5, respectively, from frying with vegetable oil alone in five homes; the higher rates were ascribed to differences between the homes rather than the absence of food. The elimination of UFP and PM2.5 was found to be primarily through exhaust fans in these homes, and it was found to follow a first-order process with an elimination rate constant of 6.1 x 10(-4) +/- 2.5 x 10(-4) s(-1). The dose to an individual from frying was estimated based on the measured production and elimination rates and found to be significant when compared with the typical daily dose incurred within a home because of outside sources.

The contribution of indoor sources to particulate matter exposure in homes remains poorly understood. Yet common household activities such as frying may produce substantial concentrations of potentially toxic particles. Because of the potential adverse health impacts associated with exposure to air pollution, potentially vulnerable individuals may be advised to remain indoors at certain times so as to reduce their overall exposure. Such interventions can be negated without proper guidance regarding the exposure involved in various indoor activities such as cooking. This paper outlines a methodology to estimate the dose to particulate matter incurred during frying and shows that this can represent a significant source of daily exposure.