Have you heard of perfluorinated compounds (PFAS)? This group includes more than 4,700 man-made chemicals that accumulate in the human body and environment over time. They are called “forever chemicals” because they are extremely stable and last a long time both in nature and in our bodies. These substances can cause health problems such as liver damage, thyroid disease, obesity, fertility problems and cancer.
According to the German portal Chip.de, PFAS are also contained in parchment paper, which we so often use in everyday life.
German researchers note that PFAS in varying concentrations are found in almost every modern human body. However, if possible, you should avoid getting these substances into your body.
Most types of parchment paper contain PFAS. Although their concentration there is low and does not in itself pose a serious health hazard, chemist Louise Kerner points out that under the influence of high temperature these substances begin to evaporate and can end up in both food and air.
What to do?
Before parchment paper became a common item, a different approach was used for baking: the pan or baking sheet was greased, buttered, or vegetable oil, and then dusted with flour. This method is definitely safer, but more labor-intensive, since after cooking the dishes will have to be washed thoroughly.
Another interesting tip: instead of parchment for baking cookies, you can use, for example, wafer sheets without filling, which are usually used to make homemade waffle cake.
Source: www.gorod.lv
