Despite its convenience, using parchment paper raises several health concerns that are worth considering.
The Bleaching Dilemma
The first concern lies in the bleaching process that’s part of parchment paper production. The bleached paper may contain dioxin, a toxic chemical that is released when heated.
Dioxin Exposure: Studies have linked dioxin to reproductive and developmental disorders. Once ingested, it can accumulate in fatty tissues and remain there for 7 to 11 years.
The Silicone Coating Concern
Another issue involves the silicone coating on parchment paper. Silicone cookware is made from silicon, carbon, and oxygen, forming a rubber-like material.
Silicone and Health: Although silicone cookware resists heat better than plastic, the synthetic rubber used should ideally not come into contact with food. When heated with oils, silicone bakeware can release chemicals, raising health concerns.
FDA’s Stance on Silicone: In 1979, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) deemed silicon dioxides, crucial in silicone cookware, safe for food use. However, no subsequent studies have investigated whether silicone can leach into food.
Siloxanes Concern: Research has detected siloxanes leaching from silicone baby bottle nipples and bakeware, with potential carcinogenic and endocrine-disrupting effects. One study linked silicone gel to lethal cancer in rats, sparking debates about silicone’s safety in any form.
Rethinking Your Kitchen: Alternatives to Parchment PaperRethin
