Metallic food poisoning is caused when acid foods contact which metals?

• A. Iron or tin
• B. Silver or gold
• C. Aluminum or lead
• D. Copper or zinc

Answer: (D)

Acidic foods can corrode metals that are reactive with acids, causing metal to leach into the food. Copper and zinc are particularly prone to this reaction, so when acidic foods contact these metals, metal ions can dissolve into the food. This can produce a metallic taste and, if ingested in larger amounts, metallic poisoning. Other metals like iron or tin are less reactive with acids in normal kitchen use, and silver or gold are highly resistant to corrosion, so they don’t pose this risk. To prevent it, avoid cooking or storing acidic foods in copper or zinc containers and use non-reactive options like stainless steel, enamel, glass, or porcelain.