NDR consumer program finds potentially harmful PFAS in baking paper

A test commissioned by NDR's consumer program Markt and conducted by the independent laboratory Dekra has revealed potentially harmful PFAS compounds in baking paper from three brands: Toppits, Fredmann, and Priva. The laboratory detected FTOH-group PFAS in all tested papers, with the highest levels found in Priva.

FTOH (fluorotelomer alcohols) are PFAS compounds that impart water and oil repellency. They are volatile and can readily transfer into the air. These substances are suspected of causing organ damage and being carcinogenic. No regulatory limits are currently set for this specific group of PFAS in the EU.

PFAS, often referred to as "forever chemicals," are extremely persistent in the environment and can accumulate in ecosystems and the human body. Their widespread use in everyday products is increasingly being restricted and banned in the EU due to concerns about their harmful properties.

Manufacturers of the tested baking papers have expressed surprise at the findings. Melitta, the producer of Toppits, stated that their products are manufactured without PFAS and are regularly tested by independent labs, but they will conduct further internal analyses. Fredmann reported that their own tests show no PFAS contamination. Netto-Markendiscount, the retailer for Priva, said the product is made without added PFAS, but trace amounts of naturally occurring fluorochemicals may be present.

The program also tested silicone baking mats as an alternative. While no PFAS were found in mats from Temu, Xavax, and Kaiser, "volatile substances"—solvents and additives used in silicone production—were detected. Xavax's product slightly exceeded the permissible limit for these substances but remained within tolerance levels. Xavax has stated they will conduct new tests.