Dangerous substances in baking paper?
So you can enjoy your cookies without hesitation
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Do you think the pre-Christmas season is only perfect with freshly baked cookies? For us too! What you should therefore consider when using baking paper.
Would you like a few vanilla crescents, classic cookie cutters or coconut macaroons? In our overview of over 100 Christmas cookie recipes, you’re sure to find something suitable to get you ready for the winter season and happily sing “In the Christmas bakery”. So that you can enjoy your chocolate stars or other creations without hesitation, we will give you a few tips on using baking paper. If used incorrectly, toxic substances could be released.
Use parchment paper properly
The paper used in almost all kitchens is normally coated with silicone, which could detach if used incorrectly and transfer to food, according to the food forum of the consumer center. In general, however, it should be noted that it is rather rare for baking paper to become harmful to you. Still, there are a few things to pay attention to out loud when using it:
- Do not use baking paper if it has already discolored.
- Do not reuse parchment paper that is torn, brittle or brittle, as the coating may no longer be able to withstand it.
- Do not put the parchment paper in the oven while it is preheating.
- Use baking paper according to the manufacturer’s instructions and do not exceed the maximum temperature (usually 220 degrees Celsius).
Precisely because of the specified maximum temperature, the consumer advice center advises caution. If this is exceeded, unwanted substances can detach from the baking paper and be transferred to the food. Permissible maximum values could then possibly be exceeded, according to the report in the food forum.
How dangerous is parchment paper anyway?
The Lower Saxony State Office for Consumer Protection and Food Safety (LAVES) regularly examines baking paper. In both 2018 and 2019/2020, not a single one of the papers tested was objected to. According to the company itself, the results of the examinations of 36 baking papers from the trade have shown that all requirements for good manufacturing practice and labeling requirements have been met. This means that they…
- do not endanger human health
- do not cause any changes in the baked food due to overlapping fabrics
- and do not affect the taste or smell of the baked goods
Ökotest shows: Paper is not compostable
In 2021, Ökotest also found no questionable ingredients in 24 tested baking papers. All but one of the products performed with a good or very good end result. The only exception: one of the reusable silicone or Teflon-coated mats failed due to insufficient values.
Although some packaging boasts about it, silicone-coated baking paper is not compostable according to the Ökotest (November 2021). Seven of the tested products had advertised it. According to the Association of Municipal Companies (VKU), which represents the interests of the municipal supply and waste disposal industry in Germany, coated baking paper belongs in the residual waste for the sake of the environment.
Source used: Lebensmittel-forum.de, laves.niedersachsen.de, Verbraucherzentrale.de, vku.de