Is it safe to bake fish in aluminum foil packets?
Based on 1 peer-reviewed studykitchen
Verdict: Avoid
No. Fish, lemon, and salt together extract aluminum into the meal.
What's actually in it
The classic salmon-with-lemon-in-foil recipe combines acid, salt, heat, and fat, the four conditions that maximize aluminum migration from foil.
What the research says
A 2025 study in Int J Environ Health Res measured significant aluminum leaching with acidic and salty hot food.
Use parchment paper packets (en papillote) instead. Or bake fish in a glass or ceramic baking dish with a lid. Both produce the same tender result without aluminum.
The research at a glance
| Study | Journal | Year |
|---|---|---|
| Heavy metal transitions from cooking utensils. | Int J Environ Health Res | 2025 |
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