Researchers at Al-Azhar University in Egypt conducted a study on the potential reproductive impact of deep-fried falafel. The investigation, published in Toxicology Reports, explored how this popular street food might influence male biology in a laboratory setting.
Falafel is widely consumed across Egypt and is commonly prepared by deep-frying the chickpea or fava bean mixture in palm oil. The researchers sought to understand whether consuming fried falafel could affect the male reproductive system, using an animal model to gain insight into potential human outcomes.
In the experiment, 21 adult male rats were randomly assigned to three equal groups. The control group received only distilled water. The second group was given fresh palm oleic oil, while the third group received the same oil after a deep-frying process, continued for 28 days.
The team conducted several assessments to gauge reproductive health, including measurements of serum testosterone, the oxidative status of testicular tissue, and key sperm parameters such as concentration and motility.
Results revealed a notable decline in serum testosterone levels and reductions in sperm count and motility in the oil-treated group compared with the control. In the group exposed to repeatedly fried oil, histological examination of the testes showed structural abnormalities, suggesting tissue disruption alongside hormonal and reproductive changes. The authors noted that similar effects could occur in humans, though direct translation requires further study and confirmation through additional research.
Overall, the findings point to a potential link between the consumption of fried oil and changes in male reproductive markers in this animal model. Further investigations are needed to determine whether fried falafel in human diets could produce comparable results and what factors might influence any health outcomes.
Earlier research has also examined various factors affecting female reproductive function and sexual health, highlighting the broader importance of understanding how everyday foods and cooking methods influence health outcomes across genders.