What are aldehydes?

Aldehydes are indeed byproducts of incomplete combustion, which is typically characterized by a lack of sufficient oxygen to produce carbon dioxide and water as the main byproducts. During incomplete combustion, various volatile organic compounds can be generated, including aldehydes. These compounds often have a distinct and pungent odor, which can be quite noticeable.

Understanding this context is crucial in recognizing the nature of aldehydes and their relationship with combustion processes. In settings where combustion occurs, such as in gas appliances, the efficiency of the combustion process can impact the type and amount of byproducts generated. This makes it essential for food equipment service professionals to be aware of the possible presence of aldehydes due to incomplete combustion, particularly for safety and performance reasons.

While complete combustion yields products primarily like carbon dioxide and water, and non-toxic compounds used in food preservation are not related to the combustion process at all, the assertion that aldehydes are non-toxic compounds or byproducts of oxygen-rich combustion does not align with their actual characteristics and formation processes.