My grill grate is turning a little orange and rusty looking. My mother-in-law says it’s safe to use but I’m not so sure. Thoughts?

Grilling is a beloved pastime for many, offering a perfect blend of flavor and enjoyment on a sunny day. Among the various issues grill enthusiasts encounter, the appearance of rust and orange discoloration on grill grates is fairly common. This change can provoke safety concerns and raise questions about the quality of food being cooked on such surfaces. With the aim of ensuring a safe and pleasurable cooking experience, this article delves into the safety implications and maintenance tips for orange and rusty-looking grill grates.

The transformation of grill grates from their typical gray or black to an orange and rusty hue typically signifies the presence of rust, which is the result of oxidation. When the metal of the grates is exposed to moisture and air, it reacts to form iron oxide. This phenomena can accelerate if grates are not properly dried after cleaning or if they’re left outdoors exposed to the elements. Considering this, it’s important to acknowledge a key fact:

1. Rust is not inherently dangerous if ingested in small amounts, as iron oxide is not toxic to humans. However, rusty grill grates can deteriorate over time, influencing the quality of your grill’s performance and potentially posing health concerns if rust is consumed regularly or in significant quantities.

Before deciding to use your grill with rusted grates, consider the following aspects to gauge safety and performance:

2. Assess the extent of rust: If you notice only a few specks of rust, you can often clean and continue to use the grate with caution. However, substantial rusting might warrant grate replacement.

3. Clean thoroughly: Lightly scrub the rusted areas with a wire brush or steel wool to remove loose rust particles. Wipe the grates with a damp cloth to clear away any residue before cooking.

4. Season your grates: Just like cast iron pans, grill grates benefit from oil seasoning which not only protects them from further rust but also creates a non-stick surface. After cleaning, coat the grates lightly with cooking oil and heat the grill to help the oil bond with the metal.