Learning English

Can toast cause cancer?

Toast and roast potatoes should be golden rather than brown. That's according to a UK government agency who has warned that certain burnt foods could cause cancer.

Language challenge

What does it mean if you describe a person as 'toast'?

a) They are sunburnt
b) They are hot
c) They are going to have serious problems

Watch the video and complete the activity

The story

Government scientists are warning that overcooked foods, such as potatoes, toast, crisps and waffles could increase the risk of developing cancer.

The Food Standards Agency says a potentially harmful compound called acrylamide is produced when starchy foods are roasted, fried or grilled for too long at high temperatures.

Key words and phrases

over______
Used as a prefix to mean 'too much'

potential
describes something possible in the right circumstances

browned off
annoyed

To do

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Language challenge - answer

c) They are going to have serious problems.

End of Session 2

Join us in Session 3 for Lingohack - our video which teaches you words from the news using the latest BBC World News bulletins.