The food and drug Administration has actually approved galvanized steel storage of food. However, foods that are highly acidic should not be placed in these containers. This is because the acidity from items like tomatoes, citrus fruits, and other similar foods will corrode the zinc coating over time. The disintegration of this coating will allow salts to be absorbed into thebodyafter consuming the products stored.
The absorption of these salts can cause a mild sickness. Ingestion of zinc is not inherently dangerous as the recommended daily allowance for it is around 15 milligrams. Although unsafe for acidic foods, galvanized steel can be used in the construction of pantries and refrigerators.