Dal Foam Health Effects: When cooking lentils, you often notice foam forming. Some say it should be removed, while others say it shouldn't be.

Why does dal get foamy?

Does Dal Increase Uric Acid? Cooking is a combination of both art and science. While creating flavor and aroma is an art, the entire process of cooking a dish is based on science. From a scientific perspective, some foods form a foam-like substance on top when cooked. Lentils are a prime example of this. They have a soapy appearance and are considered unhealthy. Let us tell you whether this can be harmful. 

What is the foam that forms on food?

When lentils are boiled in an open pot, a white or light brown foam often forms on top. Many experts believe that this foam should be removed before cooking, as it is not beneficial for health. According to reports, lentils contain compounds called saponins, glycosides that dissolve upon contact with water. Saponins have soap-like properties and, when boiled, trap air, creating foam.

What does science say?

Another scientific argument is that when lentils are boiled, the proteins present in them begin to ferment. Air contains more dissolved gases than hot water, which rise to the surface and form foam. This process is called protein denaturation.

Is this foam harmful?

Some experts say that this foam that forms in lentils can be harmful because the natural structure of the glycosides present in them is disrupted. Consuming a food whose natural structure has been damaged is not considered healthy for the body. Therefore, it is recommended to remove the foam that forms on top of the lentils before eating. However, many sources suggest that small amounts of saponins, starch, and protein can also be beneficial for your health. 

Many people mistake this for uric acid, but experts say this is completely wrong. This foam neither causes any disease nor is it poisonous. According to experts, it is best to cook lentils in an open vessel, not a pressure cooker. When the lentils begin to boil, and foam appears on top, it can be easily removed with a spoon, ladle, or tea strainer.