Freezer paper is a type of paper that is coated with a thin layer of polyethylene, which makes it resistant to moisture and grease. It is often used for wrapping food items that are going to be frozen. PFAS (perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl substances) are a group of man-made chemicals that have been used in a wide variety of products, including food packaging. PFAS have been linked to a number of health problems, including cancer, reproductive problems, and developmental disorders.
What Are PFAS?
PFAS are a group of man-made chemicals that have been used in a wide variety of products, including food packaging, nonstick cookware, and stain-resistant carpets. PFAS are persistent in the environment and can accumulate in the human body over time. They have been linked to a number of health problems, including cancer, reproductive problems, and developmental disorders.
How Do PFAS Get into Freezer Paper?
PFAS can get into freezer paper through the use of recycled paper. Recycled paper can contain PFAS from food packaging, nonstick cookware, and other products that have been coated with PFAS. PFAS can also get into freezer paper through the use of certain types of inks and dyes.
Is Freezer Paper Safe to Use?
The safety of freezer paper depends on the type of freezer paper and the intended use. Freezer paper that is made from recycled paper and/or contains PFAS should not be used for wrapping food items that are going to be frozen. Freezer paper that is made from virgin paper and does not contain PFAS can be used for wrapping food items that are going to be frozen. However, it is important to note that even freezer paper that does not contain PFAS can still leach other chemicals into food, so it is best to use freezer paper sparingly.
How to Avoid PFAS in Freezer Paper
The best way to avoid PFAS in freezer paper is to use freezer paper that is made from virgin paper and does not contain PFAS. You can also look for freezer paper that is certified by a third-party organization, such as the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC).
Alternatives to Freezer Paper
There are a number of alternatives to freezer paper that can be used for wrapping food items that are going to be frozen. These alternatives include:
- Reusable food wraps: Reusable food wraps are made from materials such as beeswax, cotton, and silicone. They can be used to wrap food items multiple times and are a more sustainable option than freezer paper.
- Glass containers: Glass containers are a good option for storing food items that are going to be frozen. They are non-porous and will not leach chemicals into food.
- Silicone bags: Silicone bags are another good option for storing food items that are going to be frozen. They are non-porous and will not leach chemicals into food.
Wrapping Up
PFAS are a group of man-made chemicals that have been linked to a number of health problems. Freezer paper can contain PFAS through the use of recycled paper, certain types of inks and dyes, and other sources. The best way to avoid PFAS in freezer paper is to use freezer paper that is made from virgin paper and does not contain PFAS. You can also look for freezer paper that is certified by a third-party organization, such as the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC).
Questions You May Have
- Q: What are PFAS?
A: PFAS are a group of man-made chemicals that have been used in a wide variety of products, including food packaging, nonstick cookware, and stain-resistant carpets.
- Q: How do PFAS get into freezer paper?
A: PFAS can get into freezer paper through the use of recycled paper, certain types of inks and dyes, and other sources.
- Q: Is freezer paper safe to use?
A: The safety of freezer paper depends on the type of freezer paper and the intended use. Freezer paper that is made from recycled paper and/or contains PFAS should not be used for wrapping food items that are going to be frozen. Freezer paper that is made from virgin paper and does not contain PFAS can be used for wrapping food items that are going to be frozen. However, it is important to note that even freezer paper that does not contain PFAS can still leach other chemicals into food, so it is best to use freezer paper sparingly.
- Q: How can I avoid PFAS in freezer paper?
A: The best way to avoid PFAS in freezer paper is to use freezer paper that is made from virgin paper and does not contain PFAS. You can also look for freezer paper that is certified by a third-party organization, such as the Forest Stewardship Council (FSC).
- Q: What are some alternatives to freezer paper?
A: Some alternatives to freezer paper include reusable food wraps, glass containers, and silicone bags.
