Are grease-proof papers still loaded with fluorotelomer PFAS?
Yes, many grease-proof food papers still contain fluorotelomer PFAS, which are chemicals used to repel grease and water. A 2026 study confirms these substances are still being used in fiber-based food packaging.
What's actually in it
Grease-proof papers often rely on 6:2 fluorotelomer alcohol to keep oil from soaking through the packaging. These compounds belong to the PFAS family, a group of synthetic chemicals known for being persistent in the environment and the human body.
Manufacturers use these chemicals to create a barrier on fiber-based materials like sandwich wraps, bakery bags, and pizza boxes. Because these papers touch your food directly, these chemicals can move from the wrapper into your meal.
What the research says
A 2026 peer-reviewed study in J Agric Food Chem focused on validating methods to detect these specific grease-proofing agents. The science confirms that 6:2 fluorotelomer alcohol remains a common ingredient in fiber-based food packaging.
This research highlights that despite growing awareness of health risks, these persistent chemicals are still actively used in the products we use to hold our food. The study provides the testing framework necessary to identify these substances, proving that they are still present in modern packaging materials.
The research at a glance
| Study | Journal | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Validating Direct Mass Spectrometry Screening for Grease-Proofers Containing 6:2 Fluorotelomer Alcohol in Fiber-Based Food Packaging. | J Agric Food Chem | 2026 |
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